Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has condemned the recent arrest of Abdirahman Suleyman Jama, chairman of the People’s Political Organization, by Somali police in Mogadishu. In a statement from his office, Farmaajo asserted that this action reflects the political climate and electoral environment fostered by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Farmaajo stated that such violations harm the country’s political stability and undermine the democratic process. He called on President Mohamud to promptly restore Jama’s freedom, labeling the targeting as illegal.
He also urged Somalia’s security agencies to fulfill their constitutional duties and avoid actions that erode public trust and damage the military’s reputation.
Farmaajo appealed to President Mohamud to avoid actions that deepen political uncertainty and instead focus on restoring national unity and cohesion. He emphasized the importance of addressing existential and security threats facing Somalia during this challenging period.
The Banadir Regional Police Command stated that Abdirahman Suleyman is suspected of committing acts “against national security,” without providing further details. He is expected to be brought before a competent court.
Jama’s arrest followed a televised interview on Shabelle TV, where he criticized the government, accusing President Mohamud of failing to deliver on security and economic reforms.
This development occurred shortly after President Mohamud invited political rivals and stakeholders to a national consultation forum aimed at unifying efforts against the Al-Shabaab insurgency and strengthening Somalia’s federal system. The initiative seeks to rebuild political consensus and stabilize the country amid a recent surge in Al-Shabaab attacks.