Former Somali President Condemns Arrests of Tuk-Tuk Drivers Protesting Inflation
MOGADISHU — Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed has strongly condemned the arrest of tuk-tuk drivers in Mogadishu, stating they were peacefully demonstrating against soaring living costs and inflation.
In a formal statement, Mohamed criticized what he termed “abuses and arbitrary detention” by authorities against the young drivers of three-wheeled taxis, who he said are grappling with severe economic hardship. “I strongly condemn the abuses and arrests carried out against tuk-tuk drivers in Mogadishu while they were peacefully expressing their grievances over inflation and the harsh living conditions they face,” the statement read.
The drivers, a significant segment of Mogadishu’s informal transport sector, had been protesting recent increases in fuel prices and the general cost of living. Their demonstration was dispersed by security forces, leading to multiple detentions. Mohamed, who served as president from 2017 to 2022, urged the current government to cease what he described as repressive practices and instead engage in dialogue to address public concerns.
He specifically called for the immediate release of the detained youths, asserting that their rights to assembly and expression are protected under Somalia’s constitution and national laws. Mohamed also addressed the drivers directly, encouraging them not to lose hope in the country’s future despite the current challenges.
This incident highlights the mounting pressure on Somalia’s fragile economy. Persistent inflation, driven by currency depreciation, drought, and global market fluctuations, has severely impacted ordinary citizens. The tuk-tuk drivers, many of whom are young men supporting families, represent a visible part of the urban workforce most affected by the economic downturn. Their protest is one of several recent demonstrations over economic conditions in the capital.
Analysts note that Mohamed’s intervention carries weight as a former head of state and a prominent political figure. His criticism points to ongoing tensions between public discontent and state responses. The government has not yet publicly responded to his specific demands for the drivers’ release or a dialogue framework.
The situation underscores the challenge facing Somali authorities in managing economic grievances without triggering wider unrest. For many young Somalis, the informal transport sector provides a critical livelihood. The arrests risk exacerbating frustrations among a demographic already facing high unemployment and limited opportunities.
The next steps will likely depend on whether the government heeds the call for release and opens channels for discussion on economic policy. Observers stress that addressing the root causes of inflation and cost-of-living pressures is essential for long-term stability.
