Somalia’s political crisis has intensified following allegations by opposition figures that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud ordered the arrest of the country’s Chief Justice amid a growing dispute over the judiciary.

The controversy reportedly emerged after the Chief Justice’s tenure was extended, triggering tensions over the legality of the decision and the independence of the judiciary.

Opposition figures have accused the president of interfering in judicial affairs and using state institutions to advance political interests.

The development has raised fresh concerns about the country’s political stability, separation of powers and the independence of its judicial system.

The presidency has yet to be independently established as responsible for the alleged arrest order.