Saturday, June 13, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu, claimed that he narrowly escaped what he described as an assassination attempt allegedly planned by the Federal Government.

Sheikh Sharif accused the government of targeting opposition leaders and attempting to silence political dissent.

“The government planned to eliminate me and other opposition leaders because it could not tolerate differing political views,” Sheikh Sharif said.

Responding to remarks by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who reportedly described recent clashes as a “minor disturbance,” Sheikh Sharif strongly criticized the characterization.

“It is irresponsible to describe a conflict that lasted for two days and spread from Mogadishu to the Cadale district as a minor disturbance,” he stated.

The former president also rejected reports that the government intends to disarm opposition figures, arguing that the current security environment does not allow for such measures.

“How can we surrender our weapons when we cannot safely remain in our homes, travel on public roads, and are allegedly being targeted by attacks involving heavy weapons and drones?” he asked.

Sheikh Sharif further alleged that weapons belonging to the Somali National Army are being held by private individuals rather than remaining under state control.

“Weapons intended for the armed forces are in the hands of specific individuals and stored in private residences. President Hassan Sheikh himself is among those involved in stockpiling weapons,” he claimed.

Addressing the issue of disarmament, Sheikh Sharif emphasized that such a process requires political consensus and mutual agreement among stakeholders.

“Everyone knows how disarmament should be conducted—it must be based on agreement and trust. Instead, state weapons are in private hands,” he said.

The former president’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions and ongoing debate over security, governance, and the management of political opposition in Somalia.

The Federal Government has not yet issued an official response to Sheikh Sharif’s latest allegations.