Friday September 26, 2025
Somalia’s Interior Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag attends a security meeting in Mogadishu on Sept. 26, 2025. Fartaag directed security forces to confront anyone destabilizing the capital “with an iron fist” amid rising political tensions and planned opposition protests. (Credit: Hiiraan Online)
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s interior security minister on Friday directed security forces to confront anyone threatening public order in Mogadishu, warning that attempts to destabilize the capital will be met “with an iron fist.”
Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag issued the order after chairing a security meeting with federal agencies and Banadir regional officials. The directive comes days after militias aligned with opposition leaders stormed Warta Nabadda police station, freeing detainees and triggering deadly clashes.
“It is shameful that men who once led this country, and want to lead it again, attacked a police station with heavy weapons while claiming they were bailing out detainees,” Fartaag said. “You do not secure bail with DShKs and B-10s. They should have spoken with the Somali police command, which could have facilitated the process legally.”
Fartaag said Mogadishu is secure and that heavy weapons and military vehicles will not be allowed inside the city. He warned opposition politicians not to repeat violent actions and dismissed threats from al-Shabab, invoking the name of group spokesman Ali Mohamud Rageh, known as Ali Dheere.
“To those who echo terrorists, I say this: Mogadishu cannot be shaken by al-Shabab. It was driven out by force — and that should be understood,” he said.
The minister also addressed opposition plans to hold a protest on Saturday. He said Somali law permits peaceful demonstrations but rejected any gatherings guarded by armed groups, warning such actions would endanger public safety and risk clashes.
His comments highlight a growing political standoff. Opposition leaders insist on pressing ahead with the protest, while the government signals it will not allow rallies that threaten security.