September 21, 2012 | Daily Monitoring Report.
Somali journalist shot dead in Mogadishu
21 Sept – Source: Radio Shabelle/Radio Kulmiye – 75 words
Gunmen today killed a journalist, Hassan Yusuf Absugeh in Yaaqshid District in Mogadishu. Area residents told Shabelle the gunmen shoot the journalist as he was coming out of his house. The gunmen were armed with pistols and fled the scene after the shooting. Government forces arrived at the scene moments later. Hassan was a radio journalist for years in Mogadishu, also working at many media outlets including GBC broadcasting radio Mogadishu and radio Maanta. He is the latest journalist being killed in a string of assassinations of Somali journalists in Mogadishu.
Key Headlines
- President Hassan condemns deadly suicide attacks in Mogadishu (Radio Kulmiye/ Bar-kulan/Jowhar Online/Radio Mogadishu)
- AU forces close in on al Shabaab town (Aljazeera)
- New Ethiopian premier says country to continue playing role in Somalia Sudans (Ethiopian TV)
- Britain condemns deadly bombing in Somalia (KUNA)
- Kenya beefs up security along border with Somalia (Xinhua)
- Turkish ambassador calls businessmen to invest in Somalia (Anatolia News Agency)
- Somali-Canadian politician and journalist escapes death in suicide bombing (The Star)
PRESS RELEASE
Message of the Chairperson of the Commission for Peace Day
21 Sept – Source: AMISOM – 353 words
Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It gives me great pleasure to address you today on the occasion of the International Day of Peace or ‘Peace Day’, proclaimed by the United Nations in 1982. Two years ago, the African Union launched the ‘Year of Peace and Security in Africa’, with the aim of engaging all stakeholders to contribute towards ‘Making Peace Happen.’ We have since continued to take steps to sustain the achievements made through this campaign. Every year, these efforts culminate into one day – the 21st of September †Peace Day.
While peace cannot be achieved in a day, 21st September nevertheless affords Africans the opportunity to celebrate notable successes in the realm of peace†making, peacekeeping and peace†building and to put peace in practice through a collective, cooperative moment of unity. Peace Day is a day of cessation of hostilities, tolerance and reconciliation between individuals, families and communities.
A successful Peace Day will create hope for a better future for the entire continent. Indeed, the activities of a single day can energize Africans from all walks of life, helping to generate a widespread grassroots peace movement across the continent. And that up†swelling of demand for peace, and actions to make peace happen, may indeed help fulfill our common promise of a conflict†free Africa.
We believe that everyone can contribute to making sustainable peace a reality even through the expression of small acts of kindness to one another. These are the simple thin gs that make this day special. This year, we will b e giving special attention to the issue of women and children in armed conflicts in Africa, for they are the ones who bear the heaviest burden of conflicts, and endure the bitter pain and suffering that war brings.
Somali Government Condemns the Terrorist Suicide Bombing of a Restaurant in Mogadishu
21 Sept – Source: TFG – 237 words
The Somali government strongly condemns the double suicide attack today at a Restaurant across the National Theatre, where 14 civilians were killed and more than 20 others were injured. Among the dead were three journalists, in which two of them were senior staff of the Somali National Television. Abdisatar Dahir Sabrie and Liban Ali Nur were heroes and patriots who served their country with pride – contributing efforts that improved the national media.
The Minister of Information, Posts and Telecommunications spoke about the tragedy of today’s attack, calling it heinous and barbaric that embody the hatred ideology of Al Qaeda and its Al Shabaab affiliates. “We strongly condemn the attack of the innocent civilians today that terrorized citizens who were enjoying peacefully at a restaurant” said Minister Abdulkadir Hussein Mohamed.
“The goal of Al Qaeda is to thwart the hope of the Somali people in the new government and the improved security situation of the country” added Minister Mohamed. The government wishes to send condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in the cowardly attack. The injured are kept in our thoughts Also, the government pray a quick recovery for the injured.
The government alerted the security forces, and urged to remain vigilant as they increase the security of all government officials during the transition. Security remains a top priority for the government as it continues to crack down the terrorist cells within the capital.
UN Special Representative’s statement on attacks in Mogadishu
20 Sept – Source: UNPOS – 223 words
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, Augustine P. Mahiga is appalled by today’s suicide bomb attacks on a popular restaurant-café in Mogadishu. Initial reports indicate that numerous people were killed and wounded including prominent members of the media community.
“I strongly condemn this cowardly and senseless attack. These acts of terrorism cannot reverse the recent achievements that Somalia has witnessed” SRSG Mahiga said. “Such incidents can only reinforce the determination of the Somali people to reject violence and engage in peaceful resolution of conflict.”
He further called on the perpetrators of this act to abandon practices that inflict enormous suffering on innocent civilians and show no respect for human life. “This attack coming at a time when the people have resoundingly welcomed a popular process towards attaining more legitimate and representative institutions is an affront to the will of the Somali people and an attack on the return of normalcy to Somalia” SRSG Mahiga said.
“We will not let the hard-won momentum towards stability be affected by such events.”SRSG Mahiga expresses his sincere condolences to the families of those killed and wishes a rapid recovery to the injured. “UNPOS reiterates its support to the Somali people and is determined to work closely with the new administration in order to support Somalia on its course to peace and stability” he added.
SOMALI MEDIA
President Hassan condemns deadly suicide attacks in Mogadishu
21 Sept – Source: Radio Kulmiye/ Bar-kulan/Jowhar Online/Radio Mogadishu – 163 words
Somali’s new president has condemned the brutal suicide attacks in Mogadishu that killed dozens of civilians. President Hassan says “it is an awful attack and is deplorable, this will not stop our efforts to bring peace and progress for to country” he said speaking in an urgent conference organized by the national security team. The President has sent his condolences to the Somali public for the loss of innocent lives of their fellow compatriots.
Outgoing Prime Minister Abdiweli Mohamed Ali also condemned the attacked and blamed the al Shabaab group for being behind the attack, promising to completely end such attacks in the country. Interior Minister, Abdisamed Moalim Mohamud, his defence counterpart Hussein Arab Isse and Benadir governor Mohamud Ahmed Noor also added their voice in condemning the attacks at Village Café.
Galgadud regional governor Ahmed Hassan Yussuf also condemned the attack calling it a “massacre”. Director of Radio Kulmiye, Osman Abdullahi Gure said the attack was something new to the Somali people as it is the first suicide bombing targeting journalists.
In solidarity with other Somali media, Bar-kulan condemns this heinous attack against innocent civilians including journalists and sends condolences to the families and friends of the victims and all the Somali people. Two suicide bombers walked into a restaurant in central Mogadishu and killed at least 15 people on Thursday, police said, highlighting the security challenges facing the country’s new president.
NUSOJ condemns killing of journalists in a wave of suicide bombings in Mogadishu
21 Sept – Source: Raxanreeb – 219 words
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) vehemently condemns the barbaric attack that killed three journalists and wounded at least 7 other journalists after three suicide bombers blew themselves up at a cafeteria known for journalists’ gathering, on Thursday afternoon around 5:50pm local time bringing the total journalists killed this year alone to 12, while the union sends its condolences and shares the tragedy with the Somali media community at large.
The journalists killed in the attack include Liibaan Ali Nor and Abdisatar Dahir Sabriye of Somali National Television and Abdirahman Yasin, Director of local independent Radio station, Radio Hamar, VoD, on the spot. Whereas, Abdiqadir Ahmed Timoos, Mohamed Husein “Gentleman”, Mohamed Ibrahim “Biibaaye” of radio Mogadishu and SNTV, Abdullahi Mohamed “Suldaan” and Nuure Mohamed Ali of Kulmiye radio, Mohamed Bishaar of Mustaqbal Radio and Abdikarin Gutale of S24 Television were wounded among them severely, according to witnesses accounts.
All reporters and newscasters, anchors, editor and director at their respective media stations. Five of these wounds are currently receiving treatment from Madina Hospital and other privately owned hospitals. There are other journalists slightly wounded, but were discharged from the hospitals due to their injuries. The attack, took place at the Village restaurant better known as “Hoyoyinka” across from the National Theatre, where journalists and media workers regularly meet.
Somali journalist shot dead in Mogadishu
21 Sept – Source: Radio Shabelle/Radio Kulmiye – 75 words
Gunmen today killed a journalist, Hassan Yusuf Absugeh in Yaaqshid District in Mogadishu. Area residents told Shabelle the gunmen shoot the journalist ashe was coming out of his house. The gunmen were armed with pistols and fled the scene after the shooting. Government forces arrived at the scene moments later. Hassan was a radio journalist for years in Mogadishu, also working at many media outlets including GBC broadcasting radio Mogadishu and radio Maanta. He is the latest journalist being killed in a string of assassinations of Somali journalists in Mogadishu.
Somaliland soldiers attacked with stones in Las Anod town
20 Sept – Source: Bar-kulan – 126 words
A group of furious women reportedly attacked Somaliland soldiers in Las Anod town with stones after the soldiers tried to arrest a colleague who was found carrying unauthorized firearms inside the town. The soldiers were enforcing an order by the area’s regional security committee banning unauthorized firearms inside the town. Area deputy district commissioner Mohamed Hajji Adan told Bar-kulan the committee took the decision to ban soldiers from carrying firearms while not in an official operation in order to contain an emerging trend where armed soldiers go to the streets, adding that such guns could be used otherwise. An officer was injured during the attack and is now being treated in the area’s district hospital, according to medical sources.
REGIONAL MEDIA
AU forces close in on al Shabaab town
21 Sept – Source: Aljazeera – 02:44 min
The town of Marka in southern Somalia is known for being a rebel stronghold that was solidly under the control of al Shabaab. But two weeks ago, the armed Islamist group fled, abandoning the town almost without a fight. Still, the risk of ambush remains high. The African Union, which has a heavy troop presence in the area, says al Shabaab might have pulled back but they have not gone away.
New Ethiopian premier says country to continue playing role in Somalia, Sudans
21 Sept – Source: Ethiopian TV – 110 words
Ethiopia’s new premier has pledged to support efforts to stabilize the Horn of Africa, including fighting terrorism. Speaking moments after he was sworn in, Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn said Ethiopia will “continue with its diplomatic efforts” in Somalia and the two Sudans.
He hailed the Ethiopian military, saying it had “acquired great admiration” from the international community over its “role in bringing peace and stability” in several African countries. Hailemariam pledged to “combat and contain any anti-peace and terror activities” in the country. Alongside the efforts to bring about a lasting peace in the Horn of Africa, we will continue with our diplomatic efforts in Somalia and the two Sudans.
Four GSU officers injured in Garissa explosion
21 Sept – Source: Standard – 126 words
At least four GSU officers have been injured in twin roadside explosions targeting their vehicles in Garissa Town. Three civilians who had hiked a lift in the police lorry were also injured in the Friday attack. The first explosion occurred targeting a GSU lorry that was outside the local provincial hospital and ripped it apart as they patrolled the town.
When the North Eastern PPO Philip Tuimur and deputy PCIO Richard Ngatia rushed to the scene, the second explosion went off injuring junior officers who were at the scene.
“We missed death by a whisker. No arrests have been made and the injured are in hospital and in a stable condition’’, said Tuimur. Tuimur said the attackers were targeting the responding teams in the second explosion.
Britain condemns deadly bombing in Somalia
21 Sept – Source: KUNA – 263 words
The British government has denounced in strong terms the suicide bombing that claimed at least 14 lives in the Somali capital of Mogadishu late on Thursday. British Minister for Africa Mark Simmonds said a terse statement that such attacks would bolster the British government determination to pursue support for the Somali people in their quest to build a future of prosperity and security.
Al Shabaab supporters kill 14 in double suicide attack
21 Sept – Source: Daily Nation – 449 words
Supporters of Somalia’s Al-Qaeda linked Al-Shabaab killed 14 people and wounded 20 more in a double suicide attack in the capital Mogadishu Thursday, in one of most deadly attacks for months.”One bomber detonated himself in the restaurant, then another blew himself up just outside, killing 14,” said security official Mohamed Dahir Abdulle.The attack, the latest in the war-ravaged city where the hardline Al-Shabaab have vowed to topple the government, was one of the first to target several new upmarket restaurants recently set up by the Somali diaspora.
“There are 14 people killed by two misguided criminals,” the state-run Radio Mogadishu said in a broadcast, adding that around 20 more were badly wounded in the blast. Those killed included three Somali journalists, with at least four others wounded, press rights watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said.
INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
Family: Minn. Somali left to join al Shabaab
21 Sept – Source: AP/Boston News – 186 words
A Minnesota man recently traveled to Somalia to join al-Shabaab, a spokesman for his family said, renewing fears that the terror group is continuing to recruit Somalis living in the U.S. to return to their homeland to fight.
The investigation into al-Shabaab’s recruitment of young men has been going on for years, and authorities have never ruled out that more men could be traveling from Minnesota — home to the largest Somali population in the U.S. — to join the terror group. Still, there have been no public reports of travelers from Minnesota since 2009, and the investigation has been largely out of public view for more than a year.
But in recent weeks, some Somalis here have been visited by the FBI and subpoenaed to appear before a grand jury — possible signs that the investigation has picked up. The reasons for the subpoenas were not immediately clear. Authorities would not confirm that additional men have recently traveled to join al-Shabaab, and they would not say whether any increased FBI activity is connected to reports of recent departures or to the overall investigation.
Kenya beefs up security along border with Somalia
20 Sept – Source: Shanghai Daily/Xinhua – 631 words
The Kenyan government on Thursday beefed up security in all border towns neigbouring Somalia in northern region to curb any possible retaliatory attacks from Somali militia Al Shabaab.
Defence Minister Yusuf Haji confirmed the beefing-up of security in northern Kenya, adding that the government is committed to guaranteeing security of Kenyans and their property despite recurrent threats from terrorist group operating in Somalia.
Hajji noted that the recent apprehension of cache of lethal weapons and three suspects, who later one of them confirmed to be a member of Al-Shabaab, indicates the seriousness of the terror threat faced with country from terror group.
Turkish ambassador calls businessmen to invest in Somalia
21 Sept – Source: Anatolia News Agency – 162 words
Turkish ambassador to Somalia has said that Turkish businessmen should invest in Somalia. Somali people, who have been suffering from famine and civil war for 20 years, try to get back on their feet with assistance extended by Turkey. The airport in the capital was restored and has reached international standards in the recent period.
Speaking to AA correspondent, ambassador Kani Torun said that after Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited Somalia in August 2011, public institutions and nongovernmental organizations launched works in several areas in the country.
Somali-Canadian politician and journalist escapes death in suicide bombing
20 Sept – Source: the Star (Canada) – 114 words
Ahmed Abdisalam Adan is a survivor and despite nearly dying in a suicide bombing that killed two of his friends, the Somalia-born Canadian considers himself one of the lucky ones. “I’m alive,” he says in his first interview since the May 1 attack in central Somalia, his red and watery eyes the only visible reminder of the injuries he suffered when shrapnel tore through his body. “I’m not surprised it happened. I wasn’t expecting it but I wasn’t surprised.
“At some point,” he says. “You don’t look for the logic, you just thank God you’re alive.” This has been the reality for years for those on the front lines in Somalia — a country that may finally be on the road to recovery with last week’s election of a new president after two decades of chaos, corruption, conflict and internationally-appointed governments that failed to bring peace.
SOCIAL MEDIA
CULTURE / OPINION / EDITORIAL / ANALYSIS / BLOGS/ DISCUSSION BOARDS
“Somalia is the basic source of the terrorism that has killed our people and scarred our country.”
When Kismayu falls, Somalia will still be a minefield for our soldiers
20 Sept – Source: Daily Nation – 579 words
By the time you read this, our troops will most probably have entered Kismayu, the beautiful but unfriendly nest of Al-Shabaab vipers. Kismayu is basically what this war has been about. It is the mother’s milk of the regional terrorists, their source of strength and sustenance. And it has been a danger to our economy, pumping smuggled goods into the region.
Somalia, in general, is a painful boil on the backside of Kenya. It is the basic source of the terrorism that has killed our people and scarred our country.
It is also the source of unregistered migrants, possibly in their millions, who have brought with them religious militancy into our mosques and madrassas and through their unregulated investment, probably distorted our economy.
Top tweets
@BBCWorld At least 14 people are killed by twin suicide bomb attacks inSomalia’s capital, Mogadishu.
@UNPOSomalia Latest from #UN News Centre – #Somalia: UN envoy #Mahigacondemns deadly suicide attacks in capital: http://bit.ly/UkgfXe #UNPOS.
@OCHASomalia“I was hurt a lot and I was in pain. If she didn’t help me I would be dead.” http://rfg.ee/dScaN Mama Hawa, #Somalia hero RT@Refugees.
@BillaoJournal#Somalia Humanitarian Access Map – August 2012 | ReliefWeb:http://reliefweb.
@RefugeesMedia Amid growing tensions some 10,000 flee Kismayo in #Somalia over past 3 weeks fearing new clashes – #UNHCR tells reporters in Geneva.
Image of the day
Somali policemen move a victim after a suicide bomb attack at Village restaurant in Mogadishu, September 20, 2012. Photo: Reuters/VOA.