Somalia Disputes UN Casualty Figures Following Mogadishu Clashes

The Somali government has challenged casualty and displacement figures released by the United Nations and humanitarian agencies following recent clashes in the capital, Mogadishu.

In a statement, Somalia’s Ministry of Health reported that one person was killed and 55 others injured during the violence that occurred between June 3 and June 4. The ministry said the figures were based on verified hospital records and urged the public and international partners to rely on official data.

The government’s account differs significantly from estimates released by the United Nations and the Norwegian Refugee Council, which indicated that at least 13 people were killed, 189 injured, and more than 12,500 households displaced as a result of the fighting.

The clashes were linked to a political standoff over delayed elections after the expiry of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term. Opposition groups opposed proposals to extend the government’s mandate, leading to protests that escalated into armed confrontations involving government forces and allied militias.

Reports indicate that several residential areas, including parts of the Howlwadag district, suffered damage during the unrest, forcing some residents to flee their homes.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on all parties to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue to resolve political differences peacefully.

The Somali government said investigations and assessments are ongoing and pledged to provide further updates as more information becomes available.