Mogadishu (WDN) — Two veteran journalists who spent years working for Somalia’s state media and defending government policies have now become outspoken critics of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s displacement policies after reportedly finding themselves and their families among those affected by demolitions in Mogadishu.

Mustaf War Caddeeye and Ismaaciil Orange, who reportedly worked for the national media for nearly two decades, have recently spoken through independent media against the government’s ongoing land-clearance operations. The irony is difficult to miss.

For years, they were among the voices defending the government while other Somalis watched their homes demolished. Now that the bulldozer has reportedly reached their own neighborhoods, their tone has changed dramatically.

Their experience raises an uncomfortable question: how different might their position be if government policies had never reached their own doorstep?

Critics may accuse them of discovering the importance of accountability only after becoming victims themselves. But their personal experience also gives them an opportunity to expose what many displaced families have been saying for years. The issue, however, should go beyond these two journalists.

Every Somali citizen deserves protection of their property, due process and the right to challenge government decisions—regardless of whether they support or oppose the administration.

The government should therefore answer basic questions: Who owns the disputed land? Who authorized the demolitions? Were residents given lawful notice? Were compensation and legal remedies provided? And who ultimately benefits from the cleared properties?

The episode offers a powerful lesson in politics and journalism: government power may appear distant when it is used against someone else. But once the bulldozer reaches your own home, the meaning of accountability suddenly becomes very personal. Somalia should not need every citizen to experience displacement before demanding justice for those who already have.

WardheerNews