Monday August 24, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali Ulema Council met with the Banadir Regional Administration and the Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Ali, in Mogadishu on Sunday to discuss land-related grievances and government efforts to reform the management of public land.
The meeting, chaired by Banadir Region Governor and Mogadishu Mayor Hassan Mohamed Hussein Muungaab, focused on the management of public land and areas known as “Obasiibooyinka”, as authorities sought solutions to growing public grievances.
The Banadir Regional Administration said protecting private property was a priority and stressed that it would not allow the encroachment or seizure of land legally owned by citizens.
For their part, the Somali Ulema said the government has the legal authority to manage, allocate and restructure public land. However, they said such decisions must be made in accordance with the public interest while also taking into account the needs and rights of poor and vulnerable people.
“We are ready to listen to citizens’ complaints and resolve land disputes through administrative committees, including committees involving religious scholars and representatives from various sections of society,” the mayor said.
The meeting came hours after at least one person was killed and nearly 10 others were reportedly injured in clashes between government forces and civilians protesting the demolition of homes in Mogadishu’s Tokiyo neighborhood.
Residents staged protests after being told to leave land that authorities said belonged to the government.
Protesters burned tires in Mogadishu’s Yaqshid district, where violence erupted after government forces allegedly opened fire on residents protesting the demolitions, according to witnesses.
