Somalia and the African Union condemned a terrorist attack on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu, which involved a car bomb. The attack, claimed by al-Shabab, resulted in civilian casualties but left the president unharmed. Both entities called for national unity and international support in the fight against the militant group, emphasizing the AU’s commitment to assisting Somalia’s stabilization efforts.
On Tuesday, both Somalia and the African Union (AU) issued a strong condemnation of a terrorist attack targeting President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu. This incident involved a car bomb explosion aimed at the president as he traveled to Hirshabelle to bolster military efforts against the militant group al-Shabab.
The attack occurred in the Hamar-Jajab district, where an explosive device hidden in a roadside building detonated as the convoy passed. Although the president was unharmed and proceeded with his mission, the explosion resulted in fatalities and injuries among civilians, including a journalist.
Al-Shabab, linked to al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting that it was specifically aimed at the president. In response, the Somali government condemned the act, reaffirming that it would not hinder their military campaign against the group and emphasizing the need for unity and international collaboration to achieve peace and stability.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, also denounced the bombing, referring to it as a “desperate attempt” by al-Shabab to destabilize Somalia’s leadership and security initiatives. He highlighted the increasing public backing for governmental counterterrorism efforts and reiterated the AU’s commitment to supporting Somalia in its stabilization endeavors.
Youssouf urged ongoing cooperation at both the regional and international levels to combat terrorism effectively and ensure lasting peace in the Horn of Africa. The AU’s Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia has pledged continued assistance to help local authorities safeguard civilians and secure the nation.
In summary, the terrorist assault on President Mohamud’s convoy has elicited strong condemnation from both the Somali government and the African Union. Al-Shabab’s claims of responsibility underline the ongoing threat posed by terrorism in the region, yet officials remain resolute in their military operations against the group. The call for unity and international support is paramount as the AU commits to ongoing assistance for Somalia’s stability and security efforts.
Original Source: themedialine.org
