Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has disclosed that Al-Shabaab militants have made six attempts on his life, underscoring the persistent threat posed by the extremist group despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The revelation comes in the wake of a recent roadside bombing near Villa Somalia, where the president narrowly escaped an attack while en route to Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu.
The latest assassination attempt, which occurred on March 18, 2025, involved improvised explosive devices planted along the president’s convoy route. The blast killed at least 10 people, including several presidential guards, and injured 20 others. Al-Shabaab quickly claimed responsibility for the attack, reinforcing concerns about the group’s ability to carry out high-profile assaults in the capital.
Mohamud’s acknowledgment of multiple assassination attempts highlights the ongoing security challenges facing Somalia. Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-affiliated militant group, has waged an insurgency for more than a decade, targeting government officials, military installations, and civilians in its bid to impose strict Islamic rule. The group has previously attempted to assassinate Mohamud in 2012, 2013, and 2014, with each attempt failing to achieve its objective.
The Somali government has ramped up military operations against Al-Shabaab, particularly in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions, where militants have launched a renewed offensive. The group’s recent territorial gains have raised alarms, prompting increased airstrikes by Turkish and U.S. drones, as well as Ethiopian fighter jets. Despite these efforts, Al-Shabaab continues to demonstrate resilience, adapting its tactics and expanding its reach.
Mohamud’s administration has emphasized the need for sustained international support to combat terrorism and stabilize Somalia. The president has urged Somali citizens to remain vigilant and support government forces in their fight against extremism. “We will not be intimidated by these cowardly attacks. Somalia will prevail,” Mohamud stated during a recent address.
The assassination attempts have also drawn condemnation from global leaders, with the UK Embassy in Mogadishu denouncing the latest attack as a “cowardly act.” Human rights organizations have expressed concern about the impact of ongoing violence on civilians, calling for enhanced security measures to protect vulnerable communities.
As Somalia navigates this turbulent period, the focus remains on strengthening counterterrorism efforts and ensuring the safety of government officials and citizens. Mohamud’s survival amid repeated assassination attempts serves as a testament to the resilience of Somalia’s leadership in the face of persistent threats.