The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) expressed deep concern over reports of violence in the Somali capital Mogadishu, amid rising political tensions and a worsening constitutional crisis.

In a statement issued Thursday, IGAD strongly condemned all acts of violence and urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate tensions, and resolve their differences through peaceful, inclusive, and constructive dialogue.

IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu said, “At this critical moment, maintaining peace, stability, national unity, and the gains made in Somali state-building efforts is of utmost importance.”

He stressed that all parties involved must prioritize the interests of the Somali people over political differences and seek peaceful solutions through dialogue and consensus.

This appeal follows the outbreak of armed clashes and heavy gunfire in Mogadishu after federal security operations targeted the homes of prominent opposition figures.

These confrontations have exacerbated political tensions ahead of planned anti-government demonstrations.

Opposition leaders accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of using state security agencies against his political opponents, raising fears that the unrest could lead to broader factional violence and deepen clan divisions.

According to reports, heavy gunfire was heard in the Somali capital throughout the night, smoke was seen rising over parts of the city, and armed forces deployed in key areas as clashes erupted between rival political factions ahead of the planned protests.

The deteriorating security situation has also alarmed the international community. The United Nations and the U.S. Embassy in Somalia issued statements condemning the violence, calling for maximum restraint, and urging all parties to immediately de-escalate armed conflict to protect Somalia’s fragile stability.

These recent developments have heightened concerns that continued political confrontation could undermine years of progress in Somalia’s state-building efforts and threaten the country’s hard-won security gains.

Mogadishu

Mogadishu is the capital and largest city of Somalia, located on the Indian Ocean coast. Historically, it was a major center of trade and commerce from the 10th century onward, flourishing as a key port in the Indian Ocean trade network and part of the powerful Ajuran Sultanate. In recent decades, the city has faced significant challenges due to civil war and conflict, but it remains a culturally and historically important hub in the Horn of Africa.

Somalia

Somalia, located in the Horn of Africa, has a rich history as a key trading hub connecting Africa, Arabia, and Asia, known in ancient times as the Land of Punt. It was colonized by European powers in the late 19th century, later gaining independence in 1960. However, decades of civil war, political instability, and piracy have deeply affected the country, though its vibrant nomadic culture, poetry, and Islamic heritage remain significant.