President Hassan Sheikh: Security in Mogadishu Was Achieved Through Sacrifice, Not Chance

Mogadishu, – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has addressed the nation on the state of security in the capital, Mogadishu, while cautioning against complacency and highlighting recent incidents of unrest that underscore the fragility of progress.

The remarks came directly from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, leader of the Federal Government of Somalia, speaking to the Somali public amid growing scrutiny over the security situation in the capital.

The president emphasized that Mogadishu’s improved security did not occur by coincidence but was achieved through the sacrifices of many Somali citizens and security personnel. He urged residents to protect and preserve the hard-won gains. “The security in Mogadishu did not improve by itself; many Somalis sacrificed their lives for this. I urge everyone not to take us back to where we came from,” the president stated.

His comments were delivered on October 4, 2025, days after a series of violent incidents in Mogadishu, including an attack on the police station in Warta Nabada district.

The focus of his address centered on Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital and political hub, which has long been the epicenter of both government control and militant insurgent attacks.

The president’s remarks were triggered by recent concerns over insecurity in the city, including armed confrontations and the misuse of heavy weaponry within urban spaces. He reminded citizens that stability is essential for development and governance, warning against actions that could undo years of progress.

President Hassan Sheikh outlined specific government measures, such as prohibiting the movement of heavy weaponry in Mogadishu. “As the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, I have banned vehicles carrying heavy weapons from roaming the city. It is strictly prohibited for anyone to parade through Mogadishu with large weapons,” he said, signaling stricter enforcement measures against violators. He also noted that suspects involved in the Warta Nabada police station attack are currently awaiting trial, underscoring the government’s commitment to accountability.

Mogadishu’s security has been a central issue for every Somali administration since the collapse of the central government in 1991. Despite significant gains in recent years, particularly with the support of Somali security forces and international partners, sporadic attacks by Al-Shabaab and localized armed violence continue to challenge stability. The president’s renewed stance comes at a time when opposition groups have voiced grievances against the government, raising fears that political instability could once again provide openings for armed actors.

President Hassan Sheikh’s latest address underscores the delicate balance Somalia faces in maintaining security in its capital. His appeal to both government forces and citizens highlights a broader reality: peace in Mogadishu remains hard-won and easily reversible. As the nation grapples with political tensions and persistent militant threats, sustaining the fragile stability of the capital will require vigilance, cooperation, and continued sacrifice.