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Business slows in Mogadishu as initial road closures begin ahead of official lock-down this evening

Storyline:National News

Mogadishu residents are today forced to walk long distances thanks to the closure of a number of roads as the city prepares for an official lock-down this evening when major roads will be closed ahead of the presidential poll Wednesday.

Mogadishu mayor Yusuf Jima’ale on Sunday announced that all major roads in the city will be closed starting this evening until the presidential election is concluded.

The roads blocked include Maka al Mukarama, Sayidka, KM4 junction, Zoppe and the Airport Road, industrial road, Wadnaha, 30th road and more others.

Hundreds of members of the public were seen walking to places of work in Mogadishu as public transport is largely out of service.

The closure of these roads has had its worst effect on students and workers going to schools and business that are miles away from their residents.

Some of Mogadishu’s residents who spoke to Goobjoog News that said the lock-down negatively affect business and lives of many people in the city.

Mohamed Farah, a shopkeeper says he is unable to go to his shop located at Mogadishu’s main Market -Bakara because of the movement restrictions.

“Somali government is going to close all major roads in Mogadishu and will force us to stay home without having enough to support our families. I used to get my daily bread from that shop but I cannot open it till presidential election is concluded,” lamented Farah.

Mursal Haji Elmi, a university student said the entire area around his university was closed, forcing him to stay indoors.

“I cannot go to the university because the roads leading to it have been closed,” said Elmi.

Over twenty candidates are running to become Somalia’s president who will then choose a prime minister.

The outgoing president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud is among dozens of candidates vying for the post of president, who will be elected by new lawmakers.