The Somali Future Council has condemned what it described as “dangerous threats” made by the Defence Minister of Somalia’s caretaker federal government against opposition figures, warning that such rhetoric could further destabilise the country during a fragile political transition.
In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday, the council accused the minister of engaging in intimidation and incitement, claiming the remarks reflected the broader political intentions of former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
The council alleged that Mr Mohamud had in recent months intensified political pressure on opposition groups while mobilising forces under the justification of preserving national security and stability.
“These statements are not isolated remarks or personal opinions,” the statement said. “They reflect a wider political agenda aimed at suppressing opposition voices through intimidation and the misuse of state institutions.”
The group warned that Somalia’s past experiences with political repression and the use of security forces for partisan purposes had left deep scars on the country, and cautioned against actions that could inflame tensions further.
“Somalia’s history carries painful lessons about the consequences of political repression, the misuse of state security institutions, and the deployment of military force to advance partisan political interests,” the council said.
The opposition body also stated that Mr Mohamud would bear responsibility for any “unlawful actions or reckless escalations” directed at opposition leaders or political actors.
The council urged the Somali National Armed Forces and other security agencies to remain politically neutral and uphold constitutional principles during the ongoing political uncertainty.
“Security institutions must safeguard the Somali people and reject unlawful orders,” the statement added, warning against the involvement of armed forces in political disputes.
The council further called on both the Somali public and the international community to closely monitor developments and support efforts aimed at maintaining constitutional governance, political dialogue, and a peaceful democratic transition.
The federal government and representatives of Mr Mohamud had not publicly responded to the accusations at the time of publication.
