Might explain the different July 11, 2014
In violation of the Provisional Constitution, the law on establishing local administrations (districts and regions before federal states), the recommendations of the “Vision 2016 Conference” held in Mogadishu in September 2-6 2013, the mandates of the Ministry of Interior and Federalism, the purpose of Boundaries and Federation Commission, and the impartial mediation between two rival groups, on June 23, 2014, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud presided a ceremony at Villa Somalia in which he declared the formation of Southwest Federal Member State composed of three regions (SW3)-Bay, Bakol, and Lower Shabelle and rejected the rival one of six regions (SW6) which included Jubbaland State regions- Lower Jubba, Middle Jubba, and Gedo. The ceremony was held to disclose a “fraudulent document” signed on June 22, 2013 between Mohamed Haji Abdinur (Madder), President of SW3 and Abdifatah Mohamed Ibrahim Geesey, former Minister of SW6 sacked by President Madobe Mohamed Nuunow days before he signed the document.
For political reasons, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Religious Affairs Ridwan Hersi Mohamed signed the document on behalf of the federal government as guarantor. The Representatives of the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), signed it as witnesses and their organizations plus the United States released instantaneous press statements as preemption for anticipated objection of SW3. This replicates the show of the Interim Jubba Agreement signed between Raskamboni Militia Leader Ahmed Madobe and Minister Farah Sh. Abdulkadir in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on August 27, 2013. In practice, IGAD (Ethiopia and Kenya) leads both processes.
The significance of the two documents which created two disputed regional states is to transfer the ownership of the political power in the regions to a clan. Thus, both documents disenfranchised large segment of Somali citizens in each area and compromised the Somali reconciliation, governance, and security situations. As Jubbaland State (Ogaden-Darod), the SW3 represents Digil and Mirifle (DM) State where other clans are considered migrants.
The next political turmoil to watch for will be the formation of Benadir State, Middle Shabelle and Hiiran State, Galgudud and Mudug State which will incorporate the districts- Galkaio, Galdogob, and Jarriban now claimed by Puntland, the re-demarcation of Puntland State composed of Bari and Nugal regions, and the fates of Khatumo and Maakhir States comprising Sool and Sanaag regions. In addition, the outcomes of three matters will also be game changers: the dialogue between Somaliland State and the Federal Government, the regional State planned for the minority 0.5 (Others), and the delimitation of the side for the federal government’s Headquarter.
Not surprisingly, the decision of President Hassan has angered the majority of DM leaders, people, and Diaspora who passionately supported SW6 and opposed SW3 and Jubbaland State. Large demonstrations took place in Baidoa. President Hassan chose not to adhere to the course of actions outlined in the Provisional Constitution for the resolution of the disputed concept of federalism (decentralization) in Somalia and embarked on the creation of federal states without legal foundations. Thus, the unconstitutional decision intensified the public contempt for the federal government and the international community for their policies of deepening Somalia’s fragmentation.
Majority of the Somali people believe that the fraudulent document was prompted by the desire of foreign officials in charge of Somalia to present the establishment of non-functional federal states as a success story to the upcoming international conference on Somalia in Denmark. On their part, the Somali leaders are eager to compete for complying with the desire of their foreign handlers for legitimacy and financial support because Somali public opinion has no influence on their actions. There are reports of use of corruption, intimidations, and divisive tactics to gain support for SW3. These tactics would produce dangerous consequences.
The SW3 document written in English was most probably drafted by the United Nations Office headed by Ambassador Nicholas Kay. In full knowledge of the unpopularity of IGAD-UN-EU imposed clan federalism, the drafters inserted in the document words of punishment and intimidation against legitimate opponents. Prime Minister Abdiweli Sh. Ahmed issued press statement hailing the document and scoffing its opponents. Ironically, talking to the Governor and district commissioners of Benadir region claimed by Hawiye clan, he asked the officials to make Benadir region a place where all residents will have equal rights, protections, and opportunities in variation to other regions.
The Minister of Interior and federalism Abdullahi Godah, responsible for the policy and administration of federal matters has been excluded from the decision to side with SW3. Instead, Dr. Khalid Omar Ali, Minister of Sports and Youth has been appointed as the liaison of the federal government with SW3. The act was in general a breach of government regulation and in particular an affront to the leadership and responsibility of Minister Abdullahi Godah who rightly described the document as unconstitutional, premature, and politically unwise. Precedents predict that IGAD will label and pressure the dismissal of the Minister who got special vote of confidence from the federal parliament.
Geeska Africa website published a news item under the title “Somalia: Abdi Afey call Godah Barre will be considered Al-shabab Sympathizer.” It says, “According to the sources close to IGAD: the special representative of IGAD to Somalia Mohamed Abdi Afey announced that any Somali cabinet or official within the federal Somali Government who disagrees with the three states deal will be considered as Al-Shabab sympathizer in Somalia and the region.” President Hassan echoed similar threat in his speech during the ceremony. This is an insult to the dignity and sovereignty of the Somali people and leaders.
Details of the SW3 document
The SW3 document consists of a preamble and 11 articles. The preamble asserts that the presidents of SW6 and SW3 after face to face meeting facilitated by the federal government in Mogadishu agreed on the formation of SW3. This assertion has been categorically refuted by the President of SW6, Madobe Nunow and supporters. Therefore, the document is fraudulent and cannot be called an agreement because of the false assertion and the illegal signature.
In an interview with Sahabi (Washington, D.C.), President Nunow insisted that before achieving compromise (agreement), there was a need to talk on how to identify and protect the rights of the people of the same ancestry living in the six regions and how they will be able to participate in their local government politics. The SW6 position agrees with the provisional constitution overlooked by the federal government. Beleaguered President Hassan decided to seek relief in divisive foreign driven clan federalism.
Articles 2 and 3 stipulate that regional partners [Ethiopia and Kenya] and the international community will arbitrate the inclusion of constituencies in the Interim Jubba and Southwest Administrations. Article 4 establishes that the Federal Government will facilitate consultations between Jubba and Southwest Administrations whenever appropriate. Article 10 calls the international Partners to take appropriate measures against any group or individual who actively oppose the two administrations for their unconstitutionality.
The SW3 document is not vetted in accordance with government practices. It defies the social contract between the federal government and the Somali citizens, reaffirms the illegitimacy of Jubbaland formation, obliges the federal government to trample the rights of other Somali citizens, misrepresents the position of SW6 supporters, foments internal conflicts, overrides the purpose and work of the Boundaries and Federation Commission, and empowers clients of Ethiopia and Kenya.
In an interview with Sahabi, Mohamed Abdullahi Mursal, Minister of Planning and Coordination of SW3 has summed up the significance of SW3 absolute victory when he said that “SW3 officials will hold talks with all relevant clans and will give everyone from the region an opportunity to take part in the administration.” In the Somali context, many expressions have special connotations. Therefore, Somalis interpret the messages of Minister Mursal in different light.
“Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” President Henry S. Truman
In addition to the provisional constitution, many foreign organizations and experts have lately issued warning reports expressing serious concerns about setbacks to statebuilding in Somalia. In Policy Briefing of June 26, 2014 the International Crisis Group (ICG) has put forward four recommendations that could reverse the deteriorating situation of Somalia. Among them are: (1) the federal government should establish local and regional administrations that privilege neither the federal government appointees nor the clients of the neighboring countries; and (2) the federal government should make the Somali political grievances the paramount focus, not regional or wider international priorities.
Furthermore, in an article published by the European Union Institute for Security Studies in June 2014, titled “Somalia’s federal Agenda: from fragility to Fragmentation,” Dr. Dominik Balthasar argued for an urgent unification of Somali people and the strengthening of the central administration vis-à-vis the federal member states. He urged the international community to adhere to the principles of the Somali Compact and to support national institutions and political parties that span regional and clan divides.
Leaders of the federal government must read honestly the reality, aspirations, and interests of their country and people better than and prior to foreign researchers, observers, analysts, and international community. Political deception, empty words, and spins do not bring about positive changes. The divergent Somali public opinions and grievances should matter seriously and guide the decisions of national leaders.
(*) The author, analyst Mr. Mohamud M Uluso, can be reached directly via: mohamuduluso[AT]gmail.com
———————-

ECOTERRA Intl.
SURVIVAL & FREEDOM for PEOPLE & NATURE

10/07/2014

European Union Special Envoy, Michele Cervone d’Urso, condemned last night’s terrorist attack on Villa Somalia and expressed his sympathy with the victims and their families. The Somali security forces and AMISOM forces responded swiftly and courageously.

The Envoy said: “I am appalled by this hideous attack which took place in the month of peace, the Holy Ramadan. I pay respect to those who lost their lives in protecting the Federal leadership and call for a thorough investigation of this attack.”

The EU continues its unstinting support to the people of Somalia in their efforts to recover from years of conflict and suffering. Such cowardly acts will not be tolerated and those responsible should be brought to justice. 

By Goth Mohamed Goth

Pressure is mount on SFG President Hassan Sheik Mahmoud for  failing to keep his pledge increased security in Mogadishu during the holy month of Ramadan this after an upsurge of deadly terrorist attacks in the past few days.

Before the start of the holy month of Ramadan the government of President Hassan Sheik Mahmoud announced a new program called “Break the Fast in Peace” this after the formation of a special security unit which was tasked with deterring any attacks on the capital but the last two days we have seen a surge in the number attacks which has cost life’s of a prominent MP, police officers and many other people killed in deadly bombing.

Yesterday was the most recent day where a legislator of the Somali Federal Parliament was killed in the capital city Mogadishu.

With increased casualties in the number of traffic policemen killed in the attacks on the capital reaching 4 in just one week this after two more perished after an attack on the parliament yesterday.

Members of the Somali Federal Parliament claimed their safety is at jeopardy and President Hassan Sheik Mahmoud government had failed to secure the capital in a statement issued by the legislators yesterday.

The MPs led by the former speaker Mr. Mohamed Omar Dalha, a Member of the Somali Federal Parliament argued that there is no major guarantee from the Somali Federal Government that proves that their safety is being taken care of or that the government sheds responsibility to ensure that no further MPs are targeted.

Employees at Villa Somalia are provided with bulletproof personal vehicles and MPs own cars that are likelier to be targeted from quite a distance, as lawmaker Dalha said.

Another MP whose name is Mr. Dahir Amin Jeesow said, “The proposed President Hassan “Break the Fast in Peace” has turned to be ‘Break the Fast in Fear”.

Mr. Abdillahi Jama , a Member of the federal parliament expressed his frustration on the continued increase of attacks on the capital, what the people need is action not empty promises.

Although AMISOM forces have being successful gaining more territory in other regions of the country the government of President Hassanh Sheik Mahmoud has failed to deliver elusive peace to Mogadishu , capital of Somalia.

SomalilandPress.com

By Mohamed A. Hussein

One of the most known member of the parliament, Mohamed Mohamud Hayd was reported to be killed in the center of city Mogadishu while heading to the parliament building on Thursday morning, July 3, 2014. His body guard was also reported to be killed in that gunfire.

Immediately it was also reported that Alshabab took the responsibility of that execution and threaten to continue murdering in the month of Ramadan. Security officers are said to be in pursue of assailants. PM, Abdiwali Sheikh Ahmed and president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud both declared the killers would be brought to justice. Based on the past performance of security agents whose minister resigned few months ago soon after the parliament building was attacked, it is hard to expect this case to be concluded soon as predicted.

Parliament building, Villa Somalia and UN building were attacked recently. The government leaders gave the same speech. Condolence was sent to the families of diseased and promise to pursue killers until brought to justice was declared. None had happened afterward. As result, it is a reasonable in this case to also expect the government agents failing to find the killers.

Despite all those unsolved crimes in Mogadishu, surprisingly UN representative, Nicholas Kay has been and still reported as to have claim that Somalia is making progress in term of security as indicated on his recent report to security council few months ago, but his activities on the ground toward his own security tells different story.

Soon after UN building, one of the places used to consider safest place in Mogadishu was finally attacked by Alshabab, Mr. Kay immediately requested from Security Council to approve additional Ugandan troops trained specifically to guard the UN building in Mogadishu, which was later granted.

Now, it is no doubt that UN building is the safest place in Mogadishu because it is the only building being assigned over 700 special guards. Therefore, it is possible when Mr. Kay talks about the progressive safety of Mogadishu, he has in mind the UN building.

All the other areas are perceived for Alshabab to have free access, and the most of the political assassination is reportedly claimed by Alshabab. However, lately their claim is being questioned. Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta denied that the recent killing that took place in Lamu, Kenya in which Alshabab claimed its responsibility and instead accused local militias to be behind it. Other security analysts questioned in that case also if Alshabab was responsible why only certain tribes in Kenya were targeted.

Here in Mogadishu, the last attack in the parliament building where Alshabab is reported to take its responsibility was also questioned by security analysts as to why the attack in parliament happened the day after president’s supporters warned the members of the parliaments from talking part in debate over motion against president.

Now it should be considered any further claim by either president, prime Minster or for this matter Mr. Kay that Mogadishu is safe to be pure verbiage. Safety of the city cannot be accomplished without reconciliation among Somalia people. It is not enough for the President to just claim the safety of the city is his number one, two, and three priority. It is possible and probably the reason why there is a lack of progress so far is that the president Hassan thought since he was elected the first president after transition period,
no further reconciliation is needed and as result he should dictate from top down.

President forgets the mandate of his government was to continue reconciliation among others which is the foundation of safety of not only the capital, but the whole nation. He should also realize that international recognition without the approval of Somali people is why Somali people are still at square one. One clan militias turned to be police force for the nation will not secure the safety of the capital, not to mention other areas.

Mohamed A. Hussein
Political Analyst in the horn of Africa
Mohabdhus@aolcom

Senseless assassination of Hon. Mohamed Mohamud Hayd

Mogadishu, 3. July 2014 – One of the most experienced and steadfast Somali politicians of Somalia, Adm. (ret.) Mohamed Mohamud ‘Hayd’, a Member of the Somali Federal Parliament, was killed today,Thursday, morning in Hamarweyne district of Mogadishu, when alleged al Shabaab gunmen opened fire on a group of legislators.

Hon. Mohamud Hayd and a security officer were shot and killed on the spot. Another parliamentary official, Abdullahi Ahmed Onka, accompanying them was severely injured while another MP reportedly escaped unharmed.

The legislators were attacked as they exited Masjid Marwaaz, a mosque adjacent to the hotel they were staying at. The armed assailants allegedly shot at the MPs in a drive-by shooting before quickly fleeing in their vehicle. No arrests have been made so far.

Lawmaker Abdi Barre Yusuf confirmed to Radio Shabelle that the MPs were getting ready to come to today’s parliament session. Pro Al Shabaab radio Al Furqqaan immediately reported that the al Shabaab militia group claimed the responsibly for the attack.

A fellow legislator, lawmaker Dahir Amin Jesow, told Reuters, that this was the fifth such attack in as many days. “Hon. Hayd was a former admiral and a hardworking lawmaker who has been in parliament for over a decade. I understand the gunmen escaped – it is very unfortunate, he stated.”

Al Shabaab, who have since also claimed officially the responsibility for today’s assassination of the well liked parliamentarian and his bodyguard, had threatened to step up attacks during the Ramadan fasting month which began on Sunday.

Sheikh Abdiasis abu Musab, al Shabaab’s spokesman for military affairs, pledged to continue killing Somali legislators “one by one”, Reuters published.  “The so-called lawmakers are the ones who brought the enemy Christians into our country. We shall continue killing the legislators in bundles,” Musab reportedly told Reuters, a reference to the support Mogadishu receives from Western governments and African Union members who have sent in troops to battle the rebels.

The diplomatic relationship especially of Somalia and Kenya, have become strained since Kenya first invaded Southern Somalia and then became part of the AMISOM detail. It further deteriorated since Kenya recently started arresting also legally documented refugees and embarked on the deportation of many Somalis after an attack on a shopping mall in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, whose true masterminds have not been found out clearly, though Al-Shabab also for this case claimed responsibility.

They killed the wrong man

“They got the wrong man,” is the impression of many Somalis, who know that Hon. Hayd, who had studied in Russia, was one of those straight-forward Somali politicians, who always put the interests of the Somali people and their nation first.

The foreign backed Islamist militants were pushed out of the capital by military force with the assistance of AMISOM, the African Union lead peacekeeping forces, in 2011 but have since waged a bombing and assassination campaign to try to overthrow the government and impose their strict version of Sharia.

President Hassan Sheikh Mahamoud and Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed sent their deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of Veteran MP Mohammed Mohamud Hayd, who under earlier Somali Governments had also served as Minister of Fisheries and Minister for Tourism and Environment.

“This criminal act only promotes violence, distress and grief in our community. Taking a human life is abhorrent and only affects an innocent family and strikes them with grief. This criminal act will be investigated and justice will be brought forth,” the Prime Minister said and added “Mohammed Mohamud Hayd was a man who served his country and his people. We condemn this and any other murders especially during the holy month of Ramadhan. Islam does not support the killing of innocents, brothers slaying brothers and criminal acts. Mohammed Mohamud Hayd will be remembered for his unwavering patriotism and devotion to the great nation of Somalia.”

The Acting Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Honorable Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, who in a media briefing had boasted: “We are confident in the ongoing political process. Our mandate is to ensure a safe and secure environment for the government and the people to conduct their business,” stated she learnt with sadness the assassination of Honourable Mohammed Mohamud Hayd who until his death was a well respected Member of the Federal Parliament. “At this time when Somalia is trying to lay the critical foundations of a stable and a democratic state, the assassination of legislators who represent the voices of the people remains an intolerable crime, ‘she said. The AU Special Representative offered her condolences to the Federal Parliament of Somalia, relatives and friends for the death of the Honourable Mohammed Mohamud Hayd. She also prayed for quick recovery of another parliamentarian, Honourable Abdullahi Ahmed Onka who was wounded in the same attack.

“I am appalled to learn of the murder of Mohamed Mohamud ‘Hayd’ and condemn his brutal murder in the strongest terms. Ramadan is a time for peace and reconciliation; to commit such callous crimes during the holy month demonstrates how little regard the perpetrators have for the Somali people,” UN-SRSG Nicolaus Kay said. “I call on the authorities to make every effort to bring the perpetrators to justice as quickly as possible. We remain resolute in our support for the Somali people and their representatives as they work to realise their hope for a peaceful and stable future.” he added.

A great Somali statesman, steadfast defender of Somali interests, the Somali people and their nation, a dedicated leader and a great friend and colleague fell to this senseless assassination carried out by heinous murderers.

Our deep thoughts are with the family and the many Somalis of all regions, who lost their caring and integrating father figure.

———————-

ECOTERRA Intl.
SURVIVAL & FREEDOM for PEOPLE & NATURE

ECOTERRA Intl. nodes
Cairns – Calgary – Cassel – Cebu – Curitiba
– London – Nairobi – Roma – Paris – Wien
ECOTERRA – FIRST PEOPLES & NATURE FIRST!
24 h EMERGENCY RESPONSE PHONE LINE: +254-714-747-090
http://www.ecoterra-international.org
Marine Group: http://www.ecop.info
Green is Good – environmentalism is not political – it is sanity !s
ECOTERRA Intl. has no Petro-Dollars like other “conservation” orgs
Please help by becoming a donating subscriber today!  For making
donations and to receive your personalized donation rewards! Please
contact: ecotrust[AT]ecoterra[DOT]net PLEASE DONATE and sponsor
our work with Indigenous Peoples and to Protect Nature: ECOTERRA
BITCOIN BTC Account: 1D87JuSmrcwHuFHDNf9YfjQPGbKhM652pX
Pls send transaction e-mail to ecoterratrust[AT]ecoterra.net to att.: Friends
of ECOTERRA, to receive a receipt, which might allow you to gain tax-
deduction benefits in your country or send it as gift with or without your name.
Please feel welcome to subscribe to any or all of our free mailing lists.
To subscribe to any group-list just go to http://ccmail.ecoterra-international.org/
(ECOTERRA Intl. keeps your Personally Identifiable Information
confidential and does not disclose, sell, trade or exchange e-mail
addresses or mailing lists.)
These are moderated lists [© 1972-2014] with  low traffic on important issues:
UNIQUE_PEOPLES
(Defending natural rights of First and traditional Peoples –
especially minorities)
(also various lists for specific First Nation Peoples
e.g: https://www.batwa.org/  http://www.ogiek.org , http://www.madhibaan.org or
http://www.khoisanpeoples.org)
NATURAL_FORESTS
(Protection of the old-growth or other natural forests and it’s peoples)
DIVERSE_LIFE
(Protection of all species of wild fauna and flora)
BRIGHT_FUTURE
(Trackmaps for our common future)
CLEAN_SKYnSPACE
(Protection of the fragile atmosphere of Earth)
NATURAL_SEAS
(Protection of the marine biosphere)
DIVERSE_LANDS
(Protection of terrestrial ecosystems)
NATURAL_WATERS
(Protection of the aquatic ecosystems)
NATURAL_GENES
(Protection against genetically engineered organisms)
NATURAL_HEALTH
(Protection of human health)
TRAVELnCARE
(Protection of free voyage, safe travel and caring visit)
NATURAL_DEFENCE
(Protection of our values, our and our children’s heritage and future)
* The list of subscribers to the [NATURAL_DEFENCE] list will for
obvious reasons always be maintained off the cloud and off any server.
Though all our lists remain strictly confidential it can not be ruled out
that hacked servers or leaking clouds could be accessed by third party.
We go the extra mile and maintain the NATURAL_DEFENCE list off the grid.
NATURAL_FREEDOM
(Secondment to the uprisings of the people around the globe)
CPU – COUNTER-PIRACY STATUS UPDATES
(public part of this list – fighting fish- and ship-piracy)
SMCM – Somali Marine & Coastal Monitor ©
(All on Piracy, illegal fishing and dumping off the Horn of Africa
– internal only)
WILD_ROAR – (ECOTERRA ALERT BULLETIN)
FSM – FULL_SCOPE_MEDIA
(Free thinking, non-conforming investigative reporting and press
releases (hot news, investigative reporting, features & press releases
you hardly ever get from the mainstream media – English, German or
French ListServ)
WTN – WILD_TIMES_NEWS
(- the hard-copy for people without internet access /
in English and in vernacular languages (postal address required)

N.B.: For security reasons mails from ECOTERRA are very rarely 
ever sent to these mailing lists with attachments.
If you happen to receive a message with an e-mail attachment,
please be aware that our sender address might have been spoofed
and we advise you to check that mail carefully without first opening
the attachment.
If you suddenly don’t receive mails from the usual list any more,
but didn’t unsubscribe, your mailbox or your ISP might have
been tempered with by (hidden) censorship – please let us know
and re-subscribe. 
Sorry, if your e-mail address bounces several times, your address
will be unsubscribed since we have to keep a rather strict
unsubscription policy. Please re-subscribe, if you suddenly don’t
receive your mails from the specific listserv.
Avoid having your e-mail with ISPs, who are on the list of fraudulent
and/or notorious mail interceptors and trackers like verizon, aol, yahoo,
msn, hotmail, gmail, gmx, etc. The owner of now shut Lavabit[dot]com, 
Levison said: “…  I would strongly recommend against anyone trusting their
private data to a company with physical ties to the United States of America.” 
Get free-of-charge a safe e-mail with secure chat: https://unseen.is/ecoterra
(10% on Premium). Connect securely with best VPN: https://cryptostorm.is/ 
Please see http://thesimplecomputer.info/free-webmail-for-better-privacy/
for an updated list of recommendations as well as: http://prxbx.com/email/
Check out: https://www.mailpile.is/ To the deaf still on aol/yahoo/gmail etc.:
Use at least http://www.mailvelope.com/ Stop searching with Google! – 
www.Startpage.com – delivers 100% Google results in total privacy and
www.Ixquick.com – delivers 100% private results from other search engines.
Secure your android phone: http://www.futuretensecentral.com/
Opt out of global data surveillance programs http://prism-break.org/en/
Ad-mails (spạm or UBE/UCE) are terrible, but don’t use ISP- or web-based
filters, since you never know their criteria. Stay in control and install the
anti-virus, anti-spạm and firewall yourself – they are unfortunately
necessary in these days – and maintain them yourself on your system!
If you are forced to install pre-filtering then choose a service like
http://www.junkemailfilter.com/ who guarantees your mail safety,
supports the EFF and the work of progressive, non-profit NGOs.

! CAVEAT LECTOR ! 
NOTICE: This email and any files or attachments transmitted
with it may be confidential and/or privileged. The information is
intended solely for the use of the individual, entity, group or list
to whom it is addressed, except if earmarked for widest distribution.
Please see also our disclaimer and copyright rules at
http://www.ecoterra.net/sites/disclaimer-site.htm
Unless other sources are quoted or other indications given:
© means: Copyright © ECOTERRA Intl. 1972-2014 – all rights reserved
CL means CopyLeft: Copyright except for non-profit making
individuals / initiatives / organizations, if used to positively portray
what it wants to achieve, not misquoted and the source is credited.
If you are not sure what it originally was set out to promote you must
ask the author or creator first. This means that you can use it
(graphics, articles etc.), if you are not making money out of it, do
not have the intention of doing so and support the cause. If you don’t
you must get permission from the author to use it. Please send us a
copy of your publication. ECOTERRA List-mails usually are CL.
Unless otherwise stated by the author, all content is free for
non-commercial reuse, reprint, and rebroadcast, on the net and
elsewhere. Opinions are those of the contributors and are not
necessarily endorsed by the ECOTERRA Intl. collective. All
contents is published under the Open Content License, if nothing
else is mentioned, but some rights are reserved under the Creative
Commons Licence.
AR means Anti-Copyright: Use freely for whatever you want it.
It comes from the perspective that copyright should not exist at all
or that there is no need to copyright the information or image as we
wish it to be distributed freely and reused in whatever way.
N.B.: We have the right to freedom of opinion and expression; 
this right includes the freedom to hold opinions without interference 
and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through 
any media and regardless of frontiers. Art. 19 UN-UDHR
This e-mail is protected by UN Resolution A/RES/45/120 and
A/RES/53/144 as well as EU – Annex doc 10111/06 conc. UN
Resolution 217 A (III) and the Paris Charta for a New Europe.
We do not tolerate censorship nor intercepts of our genuine e-mails.
The Court of Justice of the European Union has ruled on 24 November
2011 already that generalized content filtering violates fundamental
 rights. The court has thereby recognized the impact of Internet 
filtering on freedom of expression and freedom of information.
In addition the European Court of Justice invalidated on 08. April 2014
the European Union’s 2006 Data Retention Directive policy, ruling that
indiscriminate data retention is completely unacceptable. These are
crucial steps forward in the defence of Internet freedom. 
Europe’s top court, the European Union Court of Justice (ECJ), also
decided on May 13 2014 that People must be able to remove their
digital traces from the Internet and can ask Google to delete sensitive
information from its Internet search results.    Learn more about:

03/07/2014

The EU Special Envoy to Somalia, Michele Cervone d’Urso, condemns today’s brutal murder of the Somali Member of Federal Parliament, Honourable Mohammed Mohamud Hayd, in Mogadishu and extends his sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues in the Parliament. He calls on Somali authorities to bring to justice those responsible without delay.

“This coward and senseless assassination is an attack against the nation,  against peace and reconciliation, against the Somali  people, stated the EU Special Envoy. Committing these atrocities during the holy month of Ramadan shows even more how little respect terrorists have for the people of Somalia. “

The European Union, together with the rest of the international community, continues to support Somalia, its leaders and its people on their course to peace and stability. A course that will not be deviated by such cowardly actions. (END)

               
        Delegation of the European Union to Somalia

P.O. Box 45119 Nairobi | Insurance House, Ragati Road, Upper Hill 

Tel.: +254 (0)20 280 20 00

Email: SOMALIAMISSION@eeas.europa.eu

Website: http://www.eu-somalia.eu 

Twitter: @SomaliaEU | Flickr: EUSomalia | Youtube: EU SOMALIA

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – U.S. military advisors have secretly operated in Somalia since around 2007 and Washington plans to deepen its security assistance to help the country fend off threats by Islamist militant group al Shabaab, U.S. officials said.
The comments are the first detailed public acknowledgement of a U.S. military presence in Somalia dating back since the U.S. administration of George W. Bush and add to other signs of a deepening U.S. commitment to Somalia’s government, which the Obama administration recognized last year.
The deployments, consisting of up to 120 troops on the ground, go beyond the Pentagon’s January announcement that it had sent a handful of advisors in October. That was seen at the time as the first assignment of U.S. troops to Somalia since 1993 when two U.S. helicopters were shot down and 18 American troops killed in the “Black Hawk Down” disaster.
The plans to further expand U.S. military assistance coincide with increasing efforts by the Somali government and African Union peacekeepers to counter a bloody seven-year insurgent campaign by the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab to impose strict Islamic law inside Somalia.
Those U.S. plans include greater military engagement and new funds for training and assistance for the Somali National Army (SNA), after years of working with the African Union Mission in Somalia, or AMISOM, which has about 22,000 troops in the country from Uganda, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Djibouti and Ethiopia.
“What you’ll see with this upcoming fiscal year is the beginning of engagement with the SNA proper,” said a U.S. defense official, who declined to be identified. The next fiscal year starts in October.
An Obama administration official told Reuters there were currently up to 120 U.S. military personnel on the ground throughout Somalia and described them as trainers and advisors.
“They’re not involved in combat,” the official told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity, adding that until last year, U.S. military advisors had been working with AMISOM troop contributors, as opposed to Somali forces.
President Barack Obama last year determined that Somalia could receive U.S. military assistance.
Another official said American forces over the years had provided advice and assistance in areas related to mission planning, small unit tactics, medical care, human rights and communications. The official said U.S. forces in Somalia have also facilitated coordination, planning and communication between AMISOM troop contributors and Somali security forces.
SPECIAL OPS
The comments expand upon a little noticed section of a speech given early in June by Wendy Sherman, under secretary of state for political affairs. She publicly acknowledged that a “small contingent of U.S. military personnel” including special operations forces had been present in parts of Somalia for several years.
Still, it was not immediately clear from her remarks the extent to which U.S. personnel had been operating.
U.S. special operations forces have staged high-profile raids in the past in Somalia, including an aborted attempt in October to capture an al Shabaab operative in the militant group’s stronghold of Barawe. U.S. officials have acknowledged Washington’s support for AMISOM and Somalia’s struggle against al Shabaab.
U.S. Central Intelligence Agency officials have been known to operate in the country.
U.S. troop numbers on the ground in Somalia vary over time, the officials told Reuters. Deployments are “staggered” and “short-term,” one official said. But the Obama administration official added that there was overlap in the deployments to allow for a persistent presence on the ground.
Asked about where U.S. forces were deployed, the administration official said they were “in locations throughout Somalia” but declined to elaborate further for security reasons.
The official declined to say precisely when the first U.S. military forces went back into Somalia, saying: “It was around 2007” and in support of AMISOM.
Asked about why Sherman chose to disclose the information, a State Department official told Reuters: “In the past, our assessment of the security situation in Somalia informed our decision to err on the side of force protection concerns and not divulge their presence.”
That’s changed, the official said. “We do not currently believe that acknowledging the U.S. presence will increase the already high threat to our personnel and citizens operating in Somalia.”
The announcement also reflects a deepening of the U.S.-Somali relationship and comes as the United States prepares to name its first ambassador for Somalia since 1993, who would initially be based out of the country due tosecurity concerns.
“Absolutely there’s been a shift” in the relationship, an Obama administration official said.
Military trainers from the European Union are already on the ground in Somalia training soldiers after shifting their operations at the end of last year to Mogadishu from Uganda, where troops were previously drilled.

Source: Reuters

Mogadishu, July 1, 2014: The newly appointed Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission in Somalia (DSRCC), Honorable Lydia Wanyoto Mutende has applauded the leadership of the previously fractious Bay, Bakool and Lower Shabelle regions for burying the hatchet and working towards unity.

Hon. Wanyoto-Mutende was speaking after meeting the regions’ administrators in Baidoa yesterday, exactly a week after representatives of the South West-6 Group and the South West-3 Group signed an agreement to form an interim administration for the three regions of Bay, Bakool and Lower Shabelle.

“By working together in peace, Al Shabaab will find no way to operate. Do not give a chance to violence. Continue to solve all issues by sitting down together, discussing and resolving your conflicts amicably,” she said. “It is now time to rebuild Somalia; to build schools for your children, roads, water sources to alleviate the suffering, and other infrastructure. There are more important things to do.”

Hon. Wanyoto conveyed her admiration for the determination of the local administration to steer their region into a direction of peace and reconciliation. She emphasized the importance of solving all problems through dialogue rather than resorting to violence.

The leaders expressed their “appreciation for the passion and sincere involvement of AMISOM in matters that are dear” to them, and said Hon. Wanyoto-Mutende’s visit was testimony about AMISOM’s concern for the well-being and progress of the people of Somalia.

“AMISOM has a different culture from ours, but they have showed us time and again that we are all brothers and for this, we shall continue to support them and to work very closely with them,” they said.

The elders also conveyed to the DSRCC their challenges, including the lack of properadministrative skills to effectively serve the people they represent. The DSRCC reassured them of AMISOM’s continued support.  She cited the capacity building programme for Somali civil servants that the mission has been conducting since 2010, as part of the on-going support.

Meanwhile, the DSRCC met with the Ethiopian troops in Sector 3, led by their Sector Commander, Brig. Gen. Gabremadhin Fikadu, as well as the women serving in the contingent, to motivate them and thank them for the sacrifice they are making for the cause of stability in Somalia and Africa. She passed a goodwill message for the holy month of Ramadan while meeting with the locals, before she toured the now relatively secure town, as a reassurance to the communities of the presence of AMISOM forces particularly during this Ramadan season.