The United States has warned its citizens to be careful over the anti-government protests planned for February 19.
On Thursday, the US Embassy in Mogadishu issued a warning to its citizens urging them to be careful as the opposition plans to carry out anti-government protests on Friday.
The protests are likely to kick off from 8am to around 2pm.
Opposition presidential candidates in Somalia have vowed to attend the rally at Daljirka Dahsoon Monument.
However, the government has banned all public gatherings anywhere in the country amid rising COVID-19 cases.
Opposition candidates called for the protests to voice their displeasure over the government’s inability to hold parliamentary and presidential elections.
While issuing the warning, the US Embassy informed American citizens in Somalia of the risk of “violent crime and civil unrest.”
Americans have been encouraged to stay away from the site, check local media for updates, avoid large crowds, maintain a low profile, and ensure they keep their documents up to date.
The Embassy also advised them to prepare evacuation plans devoid of government assistance.