Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire accused government forces of attacking his residence while preparations were underway for a peaceful protest scheduled for the following day.

"An attack was launched against us by forces commanded by the president whose term has expired,” Khaire said in a statement posted on social media. He further alleged that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud bears responsibility for what he described as a violent assault on an opposition consultative meeting.

The incident comes amid a deepening political crisis following the government's controversial decision to extend the president's mandate beyond its original expiration date. Opposition leaders and several regional political figures have rejected the move, arguing that it lacks broad political consensus.

Witnesses reported intense exchanges of gunfire in Mogadishu's Howl Wadaag district, where Khaire had relocated from the heavily fortified airport zone to participate in the planned demonstrations.

Residents described scenes of panic as gunfire and explosions echoed through surrounding neighborhoods. Some witnesses reported seeing armed opposition supporters and security forces exchanging fire, while others claimed that rocket-propelled grenades were used during the confrontation.

Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, who has also moved into central Mogadishu ahead of the demonstrations, condemned the attack and accused the government of escalating tensions at a time when dialogue is urgently needed.

Political observers warn that the latest violence highlights the growing polarization within Somalia's political landscape and raises concerns about the country's stability.

Human rights organizations and international partners have repeatedly called on all parties to exercise restraint, avoid violence, and resolve political disputes through dialogue and constitutional processes.

As opposition groups prepare for demonstrations and security forces maintain a heightened presence across the capital, fears are growing that further confrontation could deepen Somalia's political crisis and threaten fragile gains in security and governance.

By Dahir Alasow