Hamza announces new development regarding Al-Shabaab talks

Mogadishu (Caasimada Online) – The Prime Minister of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre, has stated that the Federal Government is ready to talk to members of Al-Shabaab who wish to renounce the group and its ideology.

In an interview he gave to Dawan TV, Hamza mentioned that the government does not oppose contacting or speaking with members of the group who want to leave, stating that those who do so have the right to return to a normal life.

As the Prime Minister stated, a person who renounces extremism may even join the government if they choose to do so.

Hamza also pointed out that some former members of Al-Shabaab are now working for the Somali government, while some hold high official positions.

On the other hand, the Prime Minister dismissed allegations that the Somali government pays Al-Shabaab to stop or reduce attacks occurring in Mogadishu.

“The government and Al-Shabaab do not have any negotiations,” he said, noting that the relationship between the two sides is based on conflict.

He also stated that reports about funding the group have been spread by individuals he claimed were part of the previous government, although he did not name the officials he was referring to.

Finally, the Prime Minister accused some former officials of having connections with Al-Shabaab, although he did not provide further details. The accusations against Al-Shabaab have become a matter of blame among political factions in Somalia, without presenting evidence to support their claims.