Farmaajo imposes lockdown on opposition zones as protests intensify

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU:  Major roads, especially those linking the residential homes and headquarters of opposition parties, have been sealed off this morning locking out residents from entering or leaving the affected areas.

Security forces have been deployed in key roads on the city also barring any motor traffic as city residents woke up to another agonising day of having to walk to and from work. Four years ago when President Farmaajo came to office, he pledged an end to road closures but the reverse has been the case throughout his tenure.

Among the areas most affected are Bulo-huubey and all areas in Wadajir district including the airport areas where opposition parties and presidential candidates have their homes and party offices.

Kulan party chairman Osman Hassan Elim told Goobjoog News President Mohamed Farmaajo was provoking the public.

“Closing the entrances and roads of candidates, denying them access to supporters and the public is a provocation and repression. It is the responsibility of President Farmajo.”

The move to close roads comes amid rising tensions in the city as demonstrations against the president continue. Demonstrations are currently ongoing in Ex-Control area in the outskirts of the city but initial reports indicate security forces have dispersed protestors firing live bullets.