UN envoy, Somali President call for an end to Kismayo fighting

Xinhua
Sunday, June 09, 2013

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Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud and UN envoy Nicholas Kay on Saturday called for an immediate cessation of fighting between rival militia in the southern port city of Kismayo.

The clashes which broke out on Friday is continuing for the second day running in port city where opposing militias are fighting for control of the area.

"I am deeply saddened to hear about that fighting resumed in Kismayo. It is wrong that Somalis are fighting each other. Fighting does not bring solution or the realization of political ambitions," Somali President said.

A number of clan militia commanders have been declared president by their supporters to run as-yet unrecognized autonomous state known as Jubaland that brings together three border provinces of Gedo, Lower Juba and Middle Juba.

The UN envoy to Somalia, Nichlos Kay for his part called on end the hostilities saying "issues must be resolved peacefully".

"I urge all parties to commit to resolve differences peacefully. I deplore reports of the loss of civilian life. This new chapter in Somalia's history must be one in which issues are resolved peacefully," the newly appointed UN envoy said.

Reports from the port city say that at least ten civilians were killed and more than a dozen were injured in the renewed fighting in Kismayo.

The fighting is between forces loyal to Ahmed Madobe and Istin Hassan, two of nearly five men who claimed presidency of the self- proclaimed Jubaland Sate.

Somali government does not recognize the Jubaland as a regional state and militia commanders as presidents. The government is currently organizing a reconciliation talks for communities in the area.

Somali president called for unity and harmony among people in Kismayo saying time of fighting was over.

Somali government maintained that formation of Jubaland was unconstitutional and that unilateral assuming of power will lead to communal strife. It called for an inclusive and transparent process to form administrations for the regions.

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