Mogadishu (UM) – The decision to open the roads to the public by the President despite objections from certain members of the security forces is most welcome according to Mogadishu residents. Many of the capitals main roads have been closed since Ramadan and with only a limited few operating.
Those interviewed by UM in Mogadishu were happy to be finally able to use the roads.
“The last government had issues with Motions in Parliament, this administration just keeps closing roads, ” laughed Mohamed Nur, a tailor. “This is just pointless because if someone decides to blow themselves up they will and a AK47 and a closed road will not stop him.” Another businessman in Bakara market who did not want to be named explained how his goods have not been able to reach him from the port because of the closed roads.
“I have tried everything but nothing worked. My goods took over 3 days to reach me from the port to Bakara market. Can you imagine the financial loss and customer disappointment?.” Many nearby shop owners made the same complaint and reiterated the painful impact the road closures have had on their businesses.
“Nabad and Nolol was turning into killing the business community and punishing the Somali people. Now the President has asked the roads to be opened, I hope the security forces listen to him,” said Safa Mohamed, a jewelry seller.
Most interviewed by UM felt that the President was not aware the roads were closed and blamed the Prime Minister, his close friend the Minister of Internal Security and the Security forces for this action. They also felt that the idea of improving security by closing roads was totally misguided.
“The Prime Minister and Security forces think they can keep Somalia safe by closing roads and hurting the economy. If roads are closed, everybody is inconvenienced and angry with the government any way. This is all Al-Shabaab want,” said a driver who did not want to be named.”
“Even with closed roads and soldiers pointing their guns at people, including women, children and the elderly, going about their daily business, there were explosions and terrorist attacks in Mogadishu in the last two weeks. The Minister of Internal Security’s office was ransacked, so what good were the road closures?” asked Muhumad Abdi Salaadin, a student.
“President Farmaajo promised to listening to the people and do what is best for them, I think he has by opening the roads already. I agree with President Farmaajo, the security services must find better ways of keeping people safe,” said a school teacher who did not want to disclose his identity.
Despite some roads been opened, there are still some that are closed and can only be accessed with a government ID card including the one leading to the Presidency. UM media was the first to campaign for the opening of the roads and we will keep you updated of the latest developments on this story.