Mogadishu On Lockdown Ahead of Election
Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, is currently on lockdown, ahead of the country’s presidential election.
Somalia has long since been troubled when it comes to the government of the country, with in-fighting, corruption and terrorism having disrupted the everyday governance of the country.
The presidential election has also been heavily delayed, since October of last year. However, along with this delay came a promise to the people that they will have a chance at a fair, and safe, ‘one-person, one-vote’ election.
The country has also been a constant target of al-Shabaab militants, who control certain regions of Somalia’s countryside. There have been numerous terrorist attacks in Mogadishu and other regions of Somalia, all claimed by the al-Qaeda affiliated, al-Shabaab.
The most recent attack was two weeks ago, when twin car bombs exploded at a popular hotel in the capital. The attack claimed the lives of 28 people.
Schools and several main roads have been closed in the capital and Mogadishu Mayor, Yusuf Hussein Jimale, has urged residents to stay indoors.
There are growing fears over a terrorist attack in the capital, aimed at disrupting the election process.
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the current president of Somalia, is seeking re-election this year. He is facing 21 other opponents for the position.
