President Ahmed Islam Madobe of Jubbaland condemned the decision by the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) to use force against peaceful protesters in Mogadishu.
On February 19, opposition called for a peaceful rally in Mogadishu to protest the government’s inability to hold elections.
However, the government sent its forces to the streets to block all roads leading to the Unknown Soldier’s Monument, which was to be the venue of the rally.
Clashes rocked the better part of Friday morning as government troops dispersed opposition politicians and supporters.
Later in the day, Madobe’s office released a press statement condemning the use of excessive force to disperse the protesters.
Unconfirmed reports indicate that over 20 people were either killed or injured in the clashes.
In the statement, Jubbaland railed against use of violence during peaceful protests, which the Provisional Constitution of Somalia permits.