Somalia: Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed Returns to His Residence as Calls for Calm and De-Escalation Grow

The Commander of the Somali National Army, Chief of the Somali Military Court along with several traditional elders accompanied the former president's convoy. However, armed forces from the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) put a roadblock to the convoy demanding disarmament of the Sharif's security, though later the roadblock was removed without a fight. The Federal Government of Somalia had previously advised opposition members to return to their respective neighborhoods as part of wider efforts to reduce political tensions in Mogadishu and restore stability in the capital. Calls for de-escalation have been coming from the US, EU, AU, IGAD and other international partners. On Wednesday, The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) expressed deep concern over reports of violence in Mogadishu amid heightened political tensions in Somalia. IGAD condemned all acts of violence and called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate tensions, and resolve their differences through peaceful, inclusive, and constructive dialogue.. Analysts believe that the situation could worsen unless the government and opposition agree on framework for the upcoming elections.