The first battle in Mogadishu after Somalia's January 2009 presidential election, marking the start of the 2009–present phase of the Somali Civil War.
Key Facts
- Date
- February 24, 2009
- Total deaths
- At least 87 people
- Injured
- At least 90 people
- Civilian deaths
- At least 11 people
- TFG police killed
- 6 people
- Al-Shabab/Hizbul Islam fighters killed
- 15 people
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Following Somalia's election of a new president in January 2009, armed Islamist factions including Hizbul Islam and Al-Shabab rejected the transitional government's authority. The political transition created a flashpoint, as rebel groups refused to recognize the newly elected President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and sought to destabilize the embryonic administration through armed action.
On February 24, 2009, rebels fired mortar volleys at the presidential palace in the Wardhigley district and attacked an African Union and government troop base in the Hodan district, as well as the nearby Howlwadag district. The battle, concentrated in the south of Mogadishu, killed at least 87 people and wounded 90 more, with the newly elected president reported to be inside the palace during the assault.
The battle resulted in at least 87 deaths and 90 injuries, overwhelming Madena Hospital with approximately 45 wounded at one point. Hizbul Islam's chairman publicly condemned attacks on AMISOM while acknowledging members' involvement, signaling fractured command. The clash is recognized as the opening engagement of the 2009–present phase of the Somali Civil War.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
2 belligerents
Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed (President).
Side B
2 belligerents
Sheikh Omar Iman (Hizbul Islam chairman).