Somali cleric Ali Wajis endorses killing of government critics
A prominent Somali cleric has publicly called for the killing of government critics, labeling them as terrorists. These remarks follow a violent drone strike on a former security official who had become a vocal critic of the current administration.
Why it matters
The endorsement of political violence by a pro-government figure raises serious concerns about human rights and the stability of the Somali political landscape.
MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – A prominent pro-government religious scholar told a gathering of senior Somali officials, including the defense minister, on Sunday that people who oppose the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud should be treated as terrorists and killed – a statement that has alarmed opposition figures already on edge after a drone strike wounded a former security chief turned government critic on Thursday.
Sheikh Ali Wajis, a cleric known for his consistent public backing of the Federal Government, made the remarks at a meeting attended by government officials, including the Minister of Defense.
“Anyone who fights Somalia’s current government should face the same punishment as terrorists and should be killed,” Wajis told the gathering.
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