Former Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire Condemns Forced Evictions in Mogadishu

 

MOGADISHU, Somalia – September 2, 2025 – Former Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire has issued a strong condemnation of the forced evictions recently carried out by the Federal Government of Somalia in the capital city, Mogadishu. The move, which has displaced hundreds of families, has sparked outrage among residents and drawn criticism from political leaders and civil society organizations.

According to community sources, many of the evicted families had been living in informal settlements on government-owned land for years. These residents, already struggling with poverty, found themselves suddenly forced from their homes without alternative housing or adequate support. Reports suggest that the vacated land has been handed over to private business interests, a decision that has intensified public anger and raised serious questions about transparency and accountability.

Khaire: “A Burden on the Vulnerable”

Speaking at a session of the National Salvation Council, a political platform he co-leads, Khaire accused the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of neglecting the welfare of ordinary citizens in favor of powerful elites.

“The people of Mogadishu are being subjected to pressures they cannot bear. Displacing poor families with no alternative shelter is cruel and unjust. I call on the government to immediately halt this practice and to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable,” Khaire declared.

He further emphasized that Mogadishu, already under strain from insecurity and economic hardship, cannot afford policies that worsen humanitarian conditions. According to him, the evictions represent not just a policy failure, but also a moral failure by the government to protect its people.

Rising Social Concerns

Humanitarian organizations have echoed Khaire’s concerns, warning that the forced evictions could fuel instability in Mogadishu. Families who have lost their homes are now living in dire conditions, lacking access to food, clean water, and medical care. With Somalia already facing climate shocks, displacement from conflict, and rising unemployment, the additional burden of urban evictions risks triggering a larger social crisis.

The National Salvation Council announced that it has begun direct consultations with affected families to assess their needs and find practical solutions. Members of the council stressed that unless the government changes course, resentment will deepen, and the gap between citizens and state institutions will continue to grow.

Government Response Still Absent

So far, the Federal Government has remained silent on the allegations surrounding the evictions. No official statement has been released to clarify the reasons behind the displacements or to outline a plan for assisting the affected families. This lack of transparency has only fueled speculation that powerful business interests are driving the government’s actions.

Observers warn that the silence could further damage public trust in government institutions at a time when Somalia faces significant political and security challenges. With national elections on the horizon and tensions already simmering, the handling of this issue could have long-term political consequences.

A Call for Justice and Accountability

Khaire, who served as Prime Minister between 2017 and 2020, stressed that protecting vulnerable citizens should be the foundation of any government policy. He called for a comprehensive urban housing strategy that balances economic development with social responsibility.

“The government exists to serve and protect its citizens. When it instead deepens the suffering of those who have the least, it betrays the public trust. Somalia deserves leadership that is compassionate, accountable, and just,” Khaire stated.

Human rights organizations also argue that forced evictions without due process violate international humanitarian and human rights standards. They are urging Somali authorities to immediately stop the displacements, provide humanitarian support to those already affected, and engage in dialogue with civil society leaders to prevent further harm.

Uncertain Future for Families

For the hundreds of families already uprooted, the future remains deeply uncertain. With no clear resettlement plans and little government assistance, many now face homelessness in a city already struggling with overcrowding and poverty. Aid groups warn that unless urgent action is taken, the crisis could spiral into a humanitarian disaster.

As the debate continues, Hassan Ali Khaire’s intervention has placed the issue firmly in the spotlight, increasing pressure on the federal government to address the crisis. The coming weeks will determine whether Mogadishu’s displaced families will see relief—or whether they will remain forgotten victims of political and economic maneuvering.