Ex-Mayor Survives Bombing

At least 10 people have been killed and more than 25 others wounded in a fierce clashes between Somali government forces and rebel fighters in the Somali capital Mogadishu, paramedics and witnesses said.
Government forces attacked bases of fighters loyal to Hizbul Islam in Mogadishu's northern districts, leading to heavy gun fire excahnge.
"We collected at least 25 wounded people from Hodan, Hawlwadag, Wardhigley and Yaqshid and admitted in various Mogadishu hospitals," said Ali Muse, the head of Mogadishu's ambulance service.
Hizbul Islam spokesman Sheikh Arus blamed government soldiers on the latest clashes, saying they have raided a base belonging to the fighters.
"Government forces attacked us and we repelled. We are still in control of the contested areas," he said.
War-ravaged Mogadishu has been the scene of deadly battles between government forces and local fighters with civilians bearing the brunt since 2007.
Meanwhile, former Mogadishu Mayor Mohamed Omar Habeb, better known as Mohamed Dhere, has escaped unhurt from a landmine explosion that was targeted on his car.
Mohammed Dhere accused the explosion on Al-Shabaab militants.
"One of my security guards was killed and three others injured in the explosion which was targeted on my car. My men arrested the culprit behind the attack and he will be brought before justice," he said.
The ex-mayor said he is ready to liberate the country from Al-Shabaab and Hizbul Islam rule if elected to any position in the government.
Somalia has been without a functioning central authority since the 1991 ouster of President Mohamed Siad Barre led to a bloody power struggle that has defied numerous attempts to restore stability.