Fierce clashes erupted in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, between government troops and militias allied with the opposition on Wednesday afternoon, forcing some civilians to flee their homes and damaging property. The violence, which saw Maka al-Mukarama road, the city's main thoroughfare, become a battlefield, intensified as the sunset, with mortar rounds reportedly landing in densely populated civilian neighborhoods and Bakara market, the country's largest business center.

The fighting follows a political crisis initiated in mid-May when President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced a one-year extension of his term, which had officially expired on May 15. This decision has been rejected by the opposition and regional leaders, with demonstrations against the extension scheduled for Thursday.

Former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed stated that government forces targeted his home, accusing Mohamud's administration of "illegally altering the constitution." He vowed to "fight back" against what he described as an aggressive attack. In parallel, former prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire alleged that government troops deployed heavy weapons, including anti-tank weapons and drones, in densely populated areas, characterizing the assault as "sustained and indiscriminate" and aimed at him and Ahmed.

The escalating violence raises concerns about stability in the region ahead of planned protests and highlights the deep divisions following the president's term extension. The situation could further destabilize the country, which has been battling an insurgency by al-Shabaab militants.

Footage circulating on social media depicted plumes of smoke rising above Mogadishu's skyline, underscoring the intensity of the clashes. The use of heavy weaponry in civilian areas has drawn particular condemnation, with accusations that the government is employing excessive force.

These events bear resemblance to clashes that occurred in 2021, indicating a recurring pattern of political instability and armed conflict in the capital. The opposition's embedded militias establishing positions in clan strongholds before the fighting began suggests a pre-meditated escalation.

As of Thursday morning, the extent of casualties and the full scope of property damage remain unclear. The ongoing hostilities in the capital risk diverting attention and resources from the fight against the al-Shabaab militant group, potentially creating opportunities for the insurgency.

Authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing the specific incidents or the allegations of indiscriminate attacks. The coming days are expected to be critical as planned protests loom, potentially exacerbating the already tense security situation in Mogadishu.