Major roads in Mogadishu to be closed tomorrow ahead of Feb 8 Presidential poll

Major roads in Mogadishu will be closed from tomorrow evening until the presidential election is concluded Wednesday next week, Mogadishu mayor Yusuf Jima’ale has said.

Jima’ale who is also Banaadir region governor said security forces will effect the order sealing off most roads leading to the central business district as presidential hopefuls gather in the city for the February 8 poll.

The mayor called on city residents to be patient and bear with the inconvenience as they have done before when foreign leaders or other high profile events happen in Mogadishu.

“The people of Mogadishu have been very patient on a number of times when roads are closed because of the elections or international meetings. I am requesting you again to be patient for the coming two days as major roads will remain closed,” said Jima’ale.

The mayor also extended his request to schools and universities to consider giving the students a break during this period to avoid any strain as a result of the security measures.

The roads which will be affected include Tarabuunka, Wadnaha, Madiino and Makka Al-mukarrama.

The move comes amid concerns the militant group Al-Shabaab could disrupt the elections. Somali security forces and African Union forces have reinforced security in most parts of the city ahead of the all-important exercise next Wednesday.

The Presidential Elections Committee announced Saturday it was moving the elections from the police academy to facilities within the airport in line with requests from presidential candidates.