Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed has publicly condemned the recent arrests of tuk-tuk drivers in Mogadishu, stating that they were merely exercising their right to protest against the rising living costs. In his statement, he highlighted the struggles that young drivers, who operate three-wheeled taxis, face amidst soaring inflation and harsh economic conditions in Somalia. Mohamed argued that their arrests represented a broader issue of governmental repression against citizens expressing legitimate grievances.

Furthermore, Mohamed urged the Somali government to reconsider its approach toward dissent and dialogue, suggesting that open communication could help address the public's concerns more effectively than repression. He emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional rights, which protect individuals from arbitrary detentions. By calling for the immediate release of the detained drivers, he reinforced the notion that respecting citizens' rights should be paramount in any democratic society.

In a broader context, this incident reflects a growing tension within Somalia regarding economic hardships and the government's response to civil unrest. By voicing support for the tuk-tuk drivers and encouraging hope among Somali youth, Mohamed is positioning himself as a defender of human rights and social justice, potentially influencing public opinion and future political discourse in the region.