Sunday , June 7, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Prominent Sufi cleric Sheikh Mohamed Soomow has accused Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of targeting him and members of the Ahlusunna community on the basis of both clan identity and religious beliefs, following the government’s demolition of a property linked to the religious group in #Mogadishu.
Addressing the media after the demolition, Sheikh Soomow rejected allegations that weapons were stored at the site and claimed that government authorities used heavy machinery to destroy the property without legal justification.
The cleric argued that the action was part of a broader campaign against Ahlusunna followers, alleging that he is being singled out because of his religious affiliation and clan background.
The controversy has sparked debate among political observers and religious leaders, with some warning that the incident could deepen tensions between the government and influential Sufi communities that have historically played a significant role in efforts to counter the extremist group Al-Shabaab.
During his remarks, Sheikh Soomow also alleged that the Mayor of Mogadishu, the Benadir Regional Police Commander, and Somalia’s intelligence chief were members of Al-Shabaab, although he did not provide evidence to substantiate the claims.
The Somali government has yet to provide a detailed public response to the accusations. The incident has intensified discussions about religious freedom, political inclusion, and the government’s relationship with religious institutions in Somalia.