Somalia: AMISOM Force Commander Re-Assures Somalis amidst Fear Campaign by Al Qaeda Militia

By NewsfromAfrica

MOGADISHU---The commander of AU forces in Somalia re-assured Somali citizens of enhanced security in Somalia, despite Al Qaeda backed extremists’ campaign of fear in recent days.  On 19th March 2012, several mortars were launched on an Internally Displaced Peoples Camp near the presidential palace, killing six civilians.

The Force Commander Maj. Gen. Fred Mugisha condemned the recent attacks. He stated;

“These attacks are part of their campaign to implant fear and intimidate people. All Somalis must stand firm against these enemies of peace. We encourage you to continue to come forward with information about possible attacks and explosives. We will stand with you as you seek to build a better way of life.”

AMISOM and the Somali government have been working closely with the populationto intercept up to  70 per cent of improvised explosive devices planted within the city. On Thursday, government forces foiled a suicide car attack at Fagah junction, after they were tipped off by civilians.

Speaking of the extremists's lost cause, the Force Commander highlighted how the al Qaeda backed militants are not at all concerned about the welfare of the Somali people. He said, “…if they were seeking to improve the situation of the people, they wouldn’t be attacking unarmed civilians,” while cautioning that these attacks may not be the last emphasizing that Somalis must stand firm and be resilient against al Qaeda’s desire to spread chaos. 

Since last August, when al Shabaab was forced into a humiliating withdrawal from Mogadishu, the Al Qaeda backed militia continues to undermine the Somali peace process.

The United Nations Security Council recently boosted AMISOM’s strength to 17,700 troops and accorded more resources. On 24th February 2012, the international community gathered to show confidence in the Somali-led peace process during the London Conference. With a new mandate and support from the international community,  AU forces will soon expand their activities to the rest of Somalia.