Federal Government Blocks Armed Escorts, Opposition Talks Postponed

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Planned talks between the federal government of Somalia and opposition figures have been put on hold after authorities blocked the entry of heavily armed regional security personnel into Mogadishu.

The federal government barred flights carrying large contingents of armed guards linked to Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni and Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, known as Ahmed Madoobe, citing security protocols governing visits by regional leaders to the capital.

According to officials familiar with the decision, the number of personnel and weapons on board the flights from Garowe and Kismayo exceeded agreed security arrangements, prompting authorities to turn the aircraft back.

Videos circulating on social media showed armed forces carrying a range of weapons, raising concerns among security agencies in Mogadishu, which remains under heightened protection following years of militant attacks.

Sources close to the opposition said the move led the two regional leaders to question security arrangements for their travel, resulting in the postponement of the planned dialogue.

Federal officials say the decision reflects the government’s responsibility to maintain order in the capital and ensure that all political engagements comply with national security regulations.

The development highlights ongoing strains between the federal government and some regional administrations, even as Mogadishu continues to push for dialogue aimed at resolving political differences and strengthening state institutions.

Neither the federal government nor the Puntland and Jubbaland administrations had issued formal statements on the postponed talks by the time of publication.