Heavy gunfire in Somali capital as row over election delay escalates
Summary
Fighting broke out in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, as government forces and opposition groups clashed over a delay in elections. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's term ended on May 15 but was extended by one year, which the opposition says is against the constitution and has led to protests and violence.Key Facts
- Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term expired on May 15 and was extended by one year.
- The opposition says the extension is unconstitutional and has called for protests.
- Heavy gunfire was reported in several neighborhoods of Mogadishu overnight.
- Police said they were fighting armed militias who launched mortar attacks.
- Talks between the government and opposition to resolve the issue have failed.
- Somalia has not held direct one-person, one-vote elections since 1969.
- Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire said government forces attacked leaders preparing for peaceful protests.
- The US embassy called the violence reckless and urged peaceful solutions.
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