Somalia: Somali President Says Government Has No Hostility Towards Its People

What the report says

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud sought on Friday to calm tensions by saying the federal government holds no hostility toward Somali citizens, according to Shabelle, as distributed by AllAfrica. Speaking in Mogadishu, he said political disputes in Somalia are not rooted in regional, clan or personal animosity and described the state’s relationship with people across the country as one of goodwill, respect and dignity.

The president also drew a line between political disagreement and violence. He said the government would confront anyone who tries to spill blood or undermine Somalia’s security and unity, while emphasizing that federal authorities are not seeking confrontation. He urged people to avoid statements and political activity that could inflame public sentiment or revive divisions from earlier conflicts, even as he acknowledged the right to express opinions.

Hassan Sheikh said the federal government’s main responsibilities are enforcing the law, protecting national unity and keeping Somalia moving forward as one country. His comments came after Puntland warned about a possible federal government plan involving the central city of Gaalkacyo and linked the issue to a potential presidential visit there. The remarks highlight continuing friction between Mogadishu and regional authorities, alongside broader concerns about stability and political messaging in Somalia.