Life is gradually returning to Mogadishu after days of clashes.

Written by: Mohammed Omran

The Somali capital is witnessing Mogadishu A state of cautious calm and a gradual return to stability, after days of clashes that erupted against the backdrop of political disputes over extending the president’s term. With the intensity of the confrontations decreasing and forces withdrawing from a number of areas, signs of normal life have begun to slowly return to the city’s streets, amid local and international efforts to contain the crisis and restore stability to the country.

Life began slowly returning to normal in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, after two days of fighting over the extension of the president's term, which expired last month. The clashes pitted federal government forces loyal to Hassan Sheikh Mohamud against forces supporting figures opposed to his continued rule.

Eyewitnesses told the African Press Agency (APA) on Sunday that there had been a significant decrease in military movements throughout the city, with traffic and civilian activity resuming on main roads after security forces and armed groups withdrew from several hotspots.

Former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire have returned to their residence in the Halane district of Mogadishu following mediation efforts aimed at easing tensions and restoring stability.

The federal government announced it had concluded a security operation against what it called "anti-peace militias" accused of attempting to incite unrest in the capital. Authorities stated that security forces successfully secured the city and prevented actions that could have threatened public order.

Meanwhile, international partners intensified their efforts to defuse the political crisis, with diplomats urging both the government and opposition leaders to engage in dialogue to resolve disputes related to elections, governance arrangements, and the democratic transition in Somalia.

The recent tensions have raised concerns among international observers, who have called for restraint and a negotiated solution to prevent further instability in the Horn of Africa nation.

The Somali capital, Mogadishu, has been under a complete lockdown since Wednesday amid clashes between federal forces loyal to President Sheikh Hassan Mohamud and forces opposed to him.

President Mahmoud's official term ended on May 15, but he vowed to remain in office following constitutional amendments that his opponents condemned as a power grab.

These disturbances came at a time when the opposition was preparing to organize a demonstration against Mahmoud's continued clinging to power.