Mogadishu, Somalia – Former Speaker of the Somali Parliament and current lawmaker, Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman, has denied reports that he and several fellow legislators were barred from traveling to Baidoa, the interim capital of Southwest State. Speaking to journalists outside the House of the People in Mogadishu on Saturday, Mursal clarified that their planned visit was postponed voluntarily following a request from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Mursal, who has previously served as both Speaker and Ambassador, emphasized that there was no obstruction or political motive behind the decision, describing it instead as a matter of coordination and timing.
“We were not prevented from traveling. The President advised us to delay the trip for logistical and security reasons, and we agreed,” he told reporters.
The clarification comes amid growing speculation on social media that a group of MPs had been blocked from visiting Baidoa, where preparations are underway for political consultations and community engagements led by federal lawmakers. Mursal dismissed such claims as baseless, saying they risked creating unnecessary tension between federal and state institutions.
“Our goal remains the same — to engage citizens and contribute to the unity of the nation. Misunderstandings like these only distract from the real work that needs to be done,” he added.
The remarks reflect Mursal’s continued influence within Somalia’s political arena, particularly as the country moves toward broader political dialogue and preparations for upcoming local and national processes. His statement also underscores the delicate balance between federal and regional authorities as Somalia’s leaders seek to strengthen cooperation and maintain stability across the states.