???? Condolences – Extending sympathy to victims' families. ???? Legal Provisions Violated – Constitution & Public Land Laws disregarded. ???? Demands to President Hassan Sheikh – Stop abuse of public land, resettle displaced families, return land to the state. ???? Warning to Business & Public – Do not be deceived into buying stolen land; unite against corruption.

JOINT PRESS RELEASE

On the Misappropriation of Public Land in Mogadishu

Date: August 19, 2025

Condolences
We, the former Presidents of the Federal Republic of Somalia, first extend our deepest condolences to the families and relatives of those who lost their lives during the ongoing operations of land grabbing and misappropriation of public property in Mogadishu. May Allah have mercy on those who passed away and grant a swift recovery to those injured.

Violated Legal Provisions
According to:

• Articles 25, 26, and 43 of the Provisional Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia
• Articles 50 and 51 of the Public Finance Management Law
• Articles 6 and 22 of Law No. 41 on Land Distribution

These laws clearly stipulate:

• That every citizen has the right to a safe environment and a dignified livelihood.
• That before any public land is removed from the national register, the necessity and justification must be publicly declared.
• That any sale or transfer must be published in the Official Gazette of the Government and displayed in public venues.
• That proceeds from public land sales must be deposited into the Central Treasury of the State.
• That equal access and benefit from land resources must be ensured.

It is a grave concern that these constitutional and legal procedures have been blatantly disregarded, with the Provisional Constitution and national laws being openly violated.

Call to Action
In light of the growing complaints from displaced families, we strongly call upon President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to:

1. Cease the misappropriation of public land and the exploitation of vulnerable citizens whom he swore to serve.
2. Provide immediate resettlement and relief for the displaced families, who have a constitutional right to housing.
3. Return the misappropriated land to government custody; and if disposal is necessary, ensure it follows lawful procedures.

Warning to Business Community and Citizens
We urge Somali business owners and the general public:

• Not to be deceived into purchasing or exploiting land designated as public property.
• To collectively reject corruption and the plunder of national assets.
• To recognize their constitutional rights as enshrined in Article 40 of the Somali Constitution.

Signatories
This joint press release is issued by the Former Presidents of Somalia:

1. H.E. Abdiqasim Salad Hassan
2. H.E. Sharif Sheikh Ahmed
3. H.E. Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo