2021 Mogadishu mutiny

On 25 April 2021, hundreds of Somali soldiers entered Mogadishu opposing extensions of the presidential mandate.

2021 Mogadishu mutiny
Date25 April – 6 May 2021
Location
Mogadishu, Somalia
Result Withdrawal of rebels from Mogadishu
Belligerents
Somalia Somali Armed Forces Somalia Mutineers
Commanders and leaders
Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Saney Abdulle[1]
Units involved
Armed forces from Mogadishu Armed forces from Lower and Middle Shabelle
Strength
Hundreds
Casualties and losses
c. 24 killed,[2] 60,000 – 100,000 displaced[3]

Background

On 14 April 2021, acting President of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed signed a law which extended his mandate by two years. This was opposed by opposition leaders which called it "a threat to the stability, peace and unity" and by the international community.[4]

History

On 25 April 2021, soldiers - mainly from Hirshabelle - entered the Somali capital Mogadishu after president Mohamed approved two years extension of his term in office. Rebels seized northern part of the city clashing with pro-government forces in some neighborhoods. Pro-government soldiers attacked homes of former Somali president and opposition leader. By the end of the day government forces withdrew towards Villa Somalia.[2]

On 6 May 2021, soldiers agreed to withdraw from Mogadishu after series of talks with the Prime Minister, held by the opposition. The police were set to take control of the city.[5] On 8 May 2021, roads were reopened and rebels withdrew from Mogadishu in vehicles towards Lower and Middle Shabelle.[6]

References
  1. Former Somalia leader says soldiers attacked his house, 25 April 2021
  2. Why Somalia’s Electoral Crisis Has Tipped into Violence, 27 April 2021
  3. Statement by the Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia: Concerns over mass displacements in Mogadishu, 28 April 2021
  4. "Somali president signs law extending mandate for two years". France 24. 2021-04-14. Archived from the original on 2021-04-14. Retrieved 2021-12-01.
  5. "Somali premier welcomes demilitarization of capital Mogadishu". Anadolu Agency. Archived from the original on 2021-05-06. Retrieved 2021-12-01.
  6. Somalia: SNA mutineers exit Mogadishu following deal with opposition, 8 May 2021
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