Mogadishu, Somalia – Prominent Somali political figures, including former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Kheyre, and Member of Parliament Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, have issued a joint statement condemning the illicit acquisition of public land in Mogadishu. The trio has called on business leaders and individuals to refrain from participating in illegal land deals, emphasizing the detrimental impact on public welfare and governance.

The leaders accused the federal government of displacing residents and appropriating lands earmarked for essential public services, such as schools and hospitals. They allege that these public properties are being sold to influential business figures, gifted to private entities, or used as bribes by corrupt officials.

“We caution businessmen against engaging in the illegal sale or acquisition of public lands. Such transactions, often facilitated through bribery, do not confer legitimate ownership or control over government property,” the joint statement warned.

The leaders also highlighted broader governance issues, including worsening security, economic instability, and political unrest. They urged the Somali government to prioritize addressing these challenges to ensure stability and public trust.

The controversy comes amidst reports that the Somali government has been reclaiming public lands for development purposes. However, critics argue that some of these reclaimed lands have been leased or transferred to private companies under questionable circumstances. A recent incident drawing public outcry involved the demolition of the School Policia cemetery to pave the way for a new naval base.