MOGADISHU – Political tensions are escalating in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, as the Federal Government and opposition leaders intensify security and political activities ahead of demonstrations scheduled for 6 June.

Reports from the capital indicate that several senior opposition figures have established temporary bases in various districts across the Banadir region, where they are reportedly coordinating protest preparations and holding consultations with political allies and supporters.

Among them is former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, who is said to have relocated from the heavily secured airport compound to an area near Hodan District. Local sources reported heightened security activity around Dabka Junction on Thursday morning, including the presence of security personnel positioned in close proximity to one another amid reports that Khaire and members of his delegation were in the vicinity.

In a separate development, increased political activity associated with former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has been reported in the Mirinaayo area, reflecting broader opposition efforts to mobilise support ahead of the planned demonstrations.

The Federal Government has meanwhile stepped up security measures across the capital, deploying additional security forces to key roads, intersections and strategic locations. Authorities have not publicly commented on the specific security arrangements, but the increased presence is widely viewed as part of efforts to maintain public order and prevent potential unrest during the planned protests.

The demonstrations come against the backdrop of growing political tensions over a range of national issues, including electoral processes, security challenges, governance reforms and the future direction of Somalia’s state-building agenda. Opposition leaders have repeatedly criticised the government’s handling of these matters, accusing it of failing to adequately address pressing political and security concerns.

The developments have heightened concerns among political observers and civil society actors, who are closely monitoring the situation amid fears that the standoff between the government and opposition groups could further deepen political divisions and undermine stability in the capital.

As preparations for the demonstrations continue, attention remains focused on whether political stakeholders can manage their differences through dialogue and avoid any escalation that could threaten security in Mogadishu and beyond.