The Somali Salvation Forum announced on Tuesday that they will be holding weekly peaceful protests, starting on June 4, 2026, until a political settlement is reached over the current impasse on elections in the country. The announcement was made at a press conference in Mogadishu, attended by opposition figures such as former President Shariif Sheikh Ahmed, Senator Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and other opposition members. The opposition leaders strongly criticized current President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, stating that his term in office expired on May 15, 2026, and he does not have the legal means to lead the country. They also revealed that diplomatic efforts to reach a settlement over the election row were unsuccessful. The opposition leaders emphasized the need for a commission to be agreed upon, as well as the process and timing of the elections. Former President Shariif Sheikh Ahmed also criticized the recent elections in Mogadishu and Baidoa, citing voter fraud and political division. He accused the government of sending troops to areas with political tensions, resulting in the deaths of soldiers and military officers. The protests are scheduled to take place in Mogadishu on June 4, and Senator Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame urged the public to participate and reject the current election process. He also stated that the opposition has received reports of government plans to use troops against those who oppose their policies. The statement from the opposition comes during a time of heightened political tensions in Somalia, caused by the election row and the collapse of talks between the government and opposition groups.
