Gunfire Rocks Mogadishu After Somalia President Extends Term
The opposition called the one-year extension illegal, while the government blamed rival militias for triggering the violence.
Gunfire broke out in Mogadishu, Somalia, after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended his term by one year. Mohamud's term was supposed to end on May 15, but he kept his position, saying parliament had approved a new constitution in March to clear the way for democratic elections. The decision drew opposition from residents and political rivals. Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire accused government forces of attacking him ahead of planned protests on Thursday. AFP journalists heard bursts of gunfire in the Howl Wadaag district, while witnesses said heavy weapons, including RPGs, were used in clashes between police and armed opposition forces. Gunfire was also heard near the home of former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.