MOGADISHU – Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi says his recent remarks were twisted by political rivals seeking to create unnecessary controversy. He maintains his point was straightforward: no one will be allowed to carry guns or incite violence in Mogadishu.
Speaking at a public gathering, Fiqi warned that the government will act against anyone attempting to destabilise the capital. “Nobody can have guns in the city or create violence. If anybody tries to commit violence, we will take action in accordance with the law,” he said. His comments were widely read as a response to opposition politician Abdirahman Abdishakur, who had posted qof iyo qori on social media, a phrase interpreted as a call to arm civilians against the government.
Fiqi illustrated his point with a story from the Farmaajo era when opposition supporters clashed with security forces. One politician, fleeing under fire, reportedly ran to a closed gate and shouted: “Are you Jewish? Why are you not opening the door?” Fiqi recounted the story as an example of disorder that would not be tolerated under the current administration.
The remarks were later circulated out of context. A political figure in the United States and aides to Puntland’s President shared the story, framing it as offensive to Jewish people. Somali officials said the phrase was intentionally misrepresented to create tension and discredit the government.
In Somali usage, the phrase “are you Jewish” is slang meaning tough, fearless, or unkind. It does not carry anti-Semitic intent. Some Somalis even carry nicknames with the term.
Government sources say the uproar is a political campaign. They insist Fiqi’s message remains unchanged: Mogadishu will not allow guns or violence.
Diplomatic sources add that Fiqi, in his ministerial roles, has met widely with diverse religious groups, including Jewish communities in the United States and abroad, and is regarded as a minister who maintains strong international relations.