2021 Mogadishu mutiny

On 25 April 2021, hundreds of Somali soldiers entered Mogadishu opposing extensions of the presidential mandate.

2021 Mogadishu mutiny
Date 25 April – 6 May 2021 Location Mogadishu, Somalia Result Withdrawal of rebels from Mogadishu
Belligerents
Somali Armed Forces	Mutineers
Commanders and leaders
Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed	Saney Abdulle[1]
Units involved
Armed forces from Mogadishu	Armed forces from Lower and Middle Shabelle
Strength
	Hundreds
Casualties and losses
c. 24 killed,[2] 60,000 – 100,000 displaced[3]

Background

On 14 April 2021, acting President of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed signed a law which extended his mandate by two years. This was opposed by opposition leaders which called it "a threat to the stability, peace and unity" and by the international community.^[4]

History

On 25 April 2021, soldiers - mainly from Hirshabelle - entered the Somali capital Mogadishu after president Mohamed approved two years extension of his term in office. Rebels seized northern part of the city clashing with pro-government forces in some neighborhoods. Pro-government soldiers attacked homes of former Somali president and opposition leader. By the end of the day government forces withdrew towards Villa Somalia.^[2]

On 6 May 2021, soldiers agreed to withdraw from Mogadishu after series of talks with the Prime Minister, held by the opposition. The police were set to take control of the city.^[5] On 8 May 2021, roads were reopened and rebels withdrew from Mogadishu in vehicles towards Lower and Middle Shabelle.^[6]