Somali security forces repel rebels attack near the presidential palace

According to a Somali government statement, rebels have attacked the army in a position not far from the presidential palace in Mogadishu, the Capital.

The security Minister Abukar Islow in a short statement, said that the attack was repelled. According to residents of the area, there were sounds of heavy gunfire.

The attack came hours before Somali opposition parties plan to hold a protest against President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo remaining in office although his term expired last week.

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President Farmajo is expected to hold a meeting with Somalia’s five regional presidents as part of efforts to end the deadlock.