MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) — Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has transferred opposition politician Abdirahman Suleiman Jama to a police detention cell, following what colleagues and rights groups have described as an “abduction-style” arrest.
Abdirahman, the chairman of the opposition political group Shacabka [The People], was seized on Friday, April 4, in central Mogadishu, shortly after leaving a political meeting at a downtown hotel.
According to witnesses, armed NISA officers intercepted his vehicle and forcibly removed him from it.
“They suddenly blocked the car, took a photo of Abdirahman, sent it to their superiors, and after receiving confirmation, ordered everyone else out before driving off with him,” said fellow politician Abdikarin Deyr Abdi, who was present during the incident.
A vocal critic of Somalia’s federal leadership
Abdirahman is a vocal critic of Somalia’s federal leadership, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.
In recent media appearances, he denounced the federal government’s security failures and criticized the Prime Minister’s planned visit to Lasanod—a city in the contested Khaatumo region, from where Abdirahman hails.
Initially held at the notorious Godka Jilaow facility—run by NISA and long associated with the secret detention of government critics—Abdirahman was recently transferred to the Hamar Weyne police station.
This follows growing domestic and international pressure over his detention, according to political associates.
“He has been held without a warrant, without access to legal counsel, and without any charges,” said Mohamed Dirir, a friend and political ally.
A family member, speaking on condition of anonymity, also confirmed his transfer to the police station but expressed concern over continued denial of his legal rights.
When contacted, Mogadishu police spokesperson Abdifatah Hassan declined to comment and referred questions to NISA.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson, Farhan Jimale, also refused to discuss the case.
The arrest has drawn widespread condemnation from opposition parties and civil society groups.
The Himilo Qaran Party, led by former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, released a strong statement denouncing the detention.
“This political kidnapping is a blatant violation of Somalia’s constitution and a disgrace to the Federal Government,” the party said.
The Wadajir Party, led by MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, also condemned the arrest. “It’s a clear violation of fundamental rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression,” the party stated.
As of now, no formal charges have been filed against Abdirahman Suleiman Jama.
Calls for his immediate release continue to grow, with critics accusing the government of using intelligence agencies to suppress dissent and intimidate political rivals.