Friday August 29, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali Salvation Council, an alliance
of opposition figures led by former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, has on Thursday
condemned the arrest of a prominent clan elder in Mogadishu, calling the move
unconstitutional and politically motivated.
Police detained Hussein Mohamed Mahmoud Haadoole earlier
this week, accusing him of disturbing security and insulting government
leaders. Haadoole is the elder brother of federal lawmaker Osman Haadoole.
The council labeled the arrest illegal, alleging that
security forces abducted Haadoole from his home after he criticized what they
described as the “auctioning of public land” by President Hassan Sheikh
Mohamud’s administration.
“Freedom of speech is a constitutional right and a
foundation of the state system,” the statement said, adding that the elder had
peacefully expressed his views on the alleged abuse of power and state
property.
The group warned that detention was part of a wider attempt
to silence dissent and intimidate citizens advocating for their constitutional
rights. It called on Somalis to stand united in defending their property and
rights.
Government officials have not commented on the council’s
allegations.