Former President Farmaajo Condemns Abuse of Elderly IDPs in Mogadishu

Former President Farmaajo Condemns Abuse of Elderly IDPs in Mogadishu

Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has strongly condemned the abuse of elderly internally displaced people (IDPs) in Mogadishu’s Siinay Market, warning that such acts undermine public trust in government and must be met with firm accountability.

In a press release on Tuesday, Farmaajo denounced the violent treatment of an elderly Somali father and mother, which was captured on video and widely circulated online. The footage showed the two being brutally assaulted in public while hundreds of bystanders looked on.

“These images are a deep scar on our nation and a grave act of injustice against citizens who were already displaced from their homes,” Farmaajo said. “I strongly condemn this act of abuse against the elderly and call for immediate justice.”

The former president cautioned members of the security forces, including soldiers and officers, against engaging in repeated violations targeting displaced and vulnerable citizens. He warned that such patterns of abuse risk dangerous consequences for Somalia’s fragile social fabric.

Farmaajo also urged Somalis to stand in solidarity with IDPs by offering support and protection. He further called on the government and security institutions to respect the dignity and fundamental rights of citizens, which he noted are enshrined in the Somali constitution.

The former leader’s statement comes as public outrage grows over the treatment of displaced communities in Mogadishu, adding pressure on authorities to take action against perpetrators and restore confidence in state institutions.