The President: “The time is now for those willing to renounce violence”

HE Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, today welcomed the capture yesterday of Baardheere, one of the few remaining hideouts of Somalia’s terror group, al-Shabaab.

“When I became President, I made securing Somalia a top priority. Three years ago, many described the commitment I made “ambitious”. But we have proved the sceptics wrong.

Today, I have great news to share. Our Somali National Army, supported by our partners in arms, yesterday secured one of the few remaining hideouts of al-Shabaab, the great city of Baardheere.

“Let there be no doubt anymore, the fight to secure our country may be hard, but my commitment and those of our partners, and the resilience of this nation has never been stronger.

“There is no future in extremism. Our doors remain open for those willing to renounce this false calling and join in the rebuilding efforts our people and country. The time is now.

“The future of Somalia is in our hands. Let us continue to be ambitious in the interest of peace and security.

“Now, let us pray for those brave soldiers who have departed us while serving a grateful nation. We send our deeply felt condolences to the equally brave families left behind.”

-ENDS-

Daud Aweis
Spokesperson
Office of the President
Federal Republic of Somalia
Emai: daweis@presidency.gov.so