Monday, August 13, 2007
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WASHINGTON (AFP) - The United States on Monday condemned the "senseless murder" of two Somali radio journalists in Mogadishu, saying it was part of moves by extremists to undermine the political process in Somalia.Ali Iman Sharmarke, the head of a local private media group Horn Afrik, which has two radio stations and a television channel, and Mahad Ahmed Elmi, the director of one of the radio stations, were killed in separate incidents on Saturday.
"We condemn the killing and offer our sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims," said State Department spokesperson Sean McCormack, describing their death as "an assault on all who are working for peace and freedom of expression in Somalia".
He said "these senseless murders" highlighted "the determination of violent extremists to undermine the political process by threatening the media and the voices of those who seek reconciliation in Somalia".
"We urge civil society, clan and religious leaders, to honour Sharmarke and Elmi by renewing their commitment to peace, reconciliation, and a stable political future for Somalia," McCormack said.
The killings bring to six the number of journalists killed this year in Somalia.
Sharmake, who had dual Somali and Canadian nationality, was targeted by a roadside bomb as he was returning in his car from Elmi's funeral.
Elmi had been shot dead by two gunmen on his way to work, colleagues said.
Source: AFP, Aug 13, 2007