UN condemns attack on African Union base in southern region of Somalia

Saturday January 16, 2016

African Union (AU) troops in the Gedo region of Somalia. Photo: AU UN IST/Mahamud Hassan

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United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned the terrorist attack perpetrated by Al Shabaab this morning against an African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) base in the town of El Adde, Gedo region in Somalia.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, which noted that details of the incident are still being verified, the Secretary-General commended the efforts of AMISOM troops working for peace in Somalia.

“He affirms that this attack will not diminish the resolve of the United Nations to work hand in hand with the African Union and AMISOM to support the people and Government of Somalia,” said the statement.

Later in the day, the UN Security Council also condemned the attack and underscored its full support to AMISOM in delivering their mandate to reduce the threat posed by the terrorist group Al Shabaab and armed opposition groups in Somalia. The members of the Security Council also underscored their gratitude for the bravery and sacrifices of AMISOM personnel in carrying out their mandate.

In a press statement, the members of the Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice and stressed that those responsible for these killings should be held accountable.

The Security Council further stressed the need to take measures to prevent and suppress the financing of Al Shabaab, and any other terrorist group in Somalia. The 15-member body paid tribute to all international actors working to bring peace and stability in Somalia.

Expressing similar condemnation, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Francisco Madeira also commended the fast response and gallantry exhibited by its troops.

“Attacks such as this further demonstrate the vile nature of Al Shabaab, whose sole purpose is to spread terror and continue the destabilization of Somalia. Our resolve can only be rejuvenated, to fight on until Somalia is freed of all elements of terror,” he underscored.

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