Somali government offers amnesty to Al-Shabab spokesman

Federal Government of Somalia has said it is ready to welcome Al Shabaab fighters who defect and renounce violence as military operations alone cannot bring peace and stability.

Minister for Information Mohamed Abdi Hayir Mareye reiterated government’s amnesty plan for those willing to surrender to the government.

Speaking at ceremony held for Somali culture and tradition campaign in Mogadishu he said “If Al-Shabab spokesman Sheikh Ali surrenders to Somali government, provided that he renounce violence, commit to participation in the peace process and the reconstruction of the country , we are going to him amnesty”

Mareye added that Somali National Army supported by African Union peacekeeping troops are making significant gains in the frontline against armed group Al Shabab and congratulated SNA and AMISOM for success in many parts of the country.

“The recent offensive against the terrorist group, Al-Shabab, aims to retake all remaining areas under their control so that the people in these areas will be able to enjoy peace and stability.”

He also called upon Somali people to support the government saying “let Somalis supports one another and let’s to counsel those young men, I urge you to sideline with Government, to work hand in hand with Soldiers”

Some months back Somalia’s government has placed a bounty on the top 11 leaders of the militant Islamist al-Shabab group.

In list was the group’s Spokesman Ali Mohamed Raage with $ 100,000 offered for information leading to his capture.