As we neared our destination, a military vehicle pulled up beside us to give civilians who were walking to the demonstration a lift. Passerbys filmed the soldiers as they helped children on to the back of their technicals, pick-up trucks fitted with an anti-aircraft gun. This friendly gesture may seem ordinary in most places, but in battle-fatigued Mogadishu, soldiers and civilians fear one another.
We arrived at Daljirka Dahsoon and saw thousands of Mogadishu resident singing and dancing all over the public square as they snapped photos to share with their friends. They greeted soldiers passing by, begging them to fire in the air; most happily obliged despite a call from the government asking soldiers to stop firing live ammunition into the air.
As we spoke to many of the supporters at the rally, it was evident that many were still enthralled at yesterday's election result.
President Farmajo, the former Prime Minister, was propelled into Somalia’s highest high office after a sweeping second round victory at Mogadishu’s airport. Millions watched the nationally televised election. Upon the announcement of the results, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made his humble exit and received a roaring ovation from Parliamentarians. Within, thousands of supporters took to the streets as soldiers saluted their president with volleys of gunfire.
Mohamud Ali Hersi, a recent university graduate, told us that he found out about the Pro-Farmajo rally through videos being circulated on WhatsApp and raced down here to be a part of history.
“Today will be a day that will be written in history for Somali’s. The people’s voice was heard.” He asked us if the pictures we were taking will be seen by President Farmajo; we told him it was quite possible. “If he does, he should remember how much we (the public) love him. When he takes office, he should work hard to keep Somali’s happy.”
The guy has enormous political capital. He should not squander it.
This is like Obama in 08
