Somalia marks 53 years of independence

Mogadishu, 01 July 2013 (SDN) – The African Union Special Representative for Somalia (SRCC) Ambassador Mahatma Saleh Annadif has lauded Somalia as the Horn of Africa nation celebrates 53 years of independence.

“On this day, 53 years ago, proud Somalis stood side by side as they witnessed the historic birth of their nation built on the ideals of justice, social cohesion and above all, unity with their African brothers and sisters,” said Ambassador Annadif.

Ambassador Annadif added that Somalia has come a long way and congratulated the people of the war-torn nation for taking charge and shaping their country’s future.

“The Somali people have demonstrated their unwavering resolve to take charge of their country’s destiny. Despite all the challenges facing the country, recent developments are encouraging and show that the gains are irreversible,” said Ambassador Annadif who further committed AMISOM’s support for Somalia.

Despite the pledge by Ambassador Annadif, the Somali government has demanded the immediate withdrawal of a section of the AMISOM troops posted in the port city of Kismayo.

The Somali government has accused a section of the AMISOM troops of violating of their mandate and has further demanded a replacement of the section in question with “a more neutral African Union force”.

The Deputy Minister for Information, Telecommunication and Postal Services Abdishakur Ali Mire said the Somali Federal Government was displeased with the three days of fighting in the port city and the arrest of a top Somali National Army commander.

The AMISOM forces joined the Kenya Defence Forces who in 2011 went into Somalia to deal with the al Shabaab menace following several attacks in Kenyan territory which included the killing and kidnapping of foreign nationals.

Source: Thestar.co.ke