Somalia and African Union Condemn Attack on President’s Convoy

Somalia and the African Union have condemned a terrorist car bomb attack on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy, which occurred in Mogadishu. Al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack but the president remained unharmed. The government emphasized the need for ongoing military operations against the terrorist group, with calls for national unity and international support.

Somalia and the African Union (AU) have issued strong denunciations regarding a terrorist attack on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, involved a car bomb explosion targeting the president while he was en route to support military operations against al-Shabab in Hirshabelle.

According to Somalia’s Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the explosion occurred in the Hamar-Jajab district, with an improvised explosive device detonated from a roadside building as the convoy passed by. Fortunately, President Mohamud was unharmed, allowing him to proceed with his journey; however, the attack resulted in casualties among civilians, including a journalist.

The al-Qaeda-affiliated group al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack, specifically stating their intent to target the presidential convoy. In response, the Somali government condemned the incident, stressing its commitment to continuing military operations aimed at dismantling the terrorist organization while calling for national unity and international aid to promote peace and stability.

AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also condemned the bombing, describing it as a “desperate attempt” by al-Shabab to disrupt Somalia’s leadership and security initiatives. He highlighted the increasing public support for the government’s counterterrorism efforts and reaffirmed the AU’s dedication to assisting Somalia in its stabilization endeavors.

Youssouf further advocated for sustained regional and international collaboration to fight terrorism and secure lasting peace in the Horn of Africa. The AU’s Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia has committed to providing continuous support to safeguard civilians and ensure the nation’s security.

In summary, the terrorist attack on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu has drawn significant condemnation from both Somalia and the African Union. Both entities reaffirm their commitment to defeating al-Shabab and restoring stability in the region while urging for national unity and international cooperation against terrorism. The AU remains dedicated to supporting Somalia’s efforts towards a secure and peaceful future.

Original Source: themedialine.org