Mogadishu, Somalia – Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has sharply criticized the arrest of traditional elder Hussein Hadoole, describing it as an act of political intimidation aimed at stifling dissent.
In a statement issued on Friday, Farmaajo said the detention of the respected elder represented a worrying trend where security forces are being used to suppress public opinion. He accused the government of undermining democratic values by targeting individuals who express critical views.
“This arrest is not only unjust but also a deliberate attempt to muzzle voices that speak truth to power,” Farmaajo said, urging President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to intervene immediately and secure Hadoole’s release.
The former head of state also warned against what he termed the “increasing misuse of state authority” to silence opposition, stressing that freedom of expression is a cornerstone of national unity and reconciliation.
Hadoole, a well-known elder in Mogadishu, was reportedly taken into custody earlier this week under unclear circumstances, sparking concern among civil society groups and opposition figures. His arrest has fueled fresh debate over the government’s handling of dissent and the boundaries of political tolerance.
Farmaajo’s remarks come amid growing tensions between the government and opposition leaders, many of whom have accused the administration of narrowing democratic space.
Calls are mounting from within Somalia’s political and social circles for authorities to respect constitutional rights and avoid actions that could deepen divisions.
So far, the government has not issued an official statement on Hadoole’s arrest or the reasons behind it.