Kenya: President Calls For Al Shabaab to Surrender

Kampala — President Mwai Kibaki has called for the demobilisation, disarmament and reintegration of the Al-Shabaab insurgents surrendering to the AMISOM forces.
Speaking on Tuesday in Kampala, Uganda, when he held bilateral talks with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, the Head of State noted that as part of the reconstruction of Somalia, there is need to take urgent measures to disarm those surrendering to avoid any regrouping.
At the same time President Kibaki reassured the Somalia leadership and its citizens that Kenya has no ulterior motive but its ultimate desire is to see the Horn of Africa nation return to peace and stability.
Said the President: "In carrying out the stabilisation efforts, I would wish to assure your Excellency that Kenya has no other agenda and its only desire is to see Somalia return to peace and stability."
The president noted that under the auspices of IGAD, Kenya is involved in the stabilisation of South Central Somalia and its desire is to work hand in hand with the Somalia government to achieve this goal to create a conducive and stable environment for the return of internally displaced persons and refugees to the pacified areas.
President Kibaki also called for the extension of the mandate of AMISOM which expires at the end of this month in order to consolidate the gains made so far against extremist elements.
The Head of State further reiterated Kenya's commitment in lobbying for and mobilising international support for Somalia.
"We are in this regard willing to host an international donors' conference for Somalia."
President Kibaki commended the people of Somalia for the peaceful transition which culminated in the election of Sheikh Mohamud as the Head of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
He pledged Kenya's support to the new leadership of Somalia and its government as they embark in the rebuilding of their nation.
President Kibaki said Kenya is ready to extend any possible assistance towards addressing the priority areas identified by the Somalia Government noting that this process can be undertaken through the frame work provided by the Joint Commission for Cooperation.
He further said the Government of Kenya is willing to support capacity building for the Somalia security forces and civil service as well as other training initiatives identified by the Somalia Government.
On his part the Somali President expressed gratitude to Kenya for continued support towards stabilization of his country.
He said he looked forward to further support in the importance phase of the reconstruction of the war-torn nation.

(published by Courtney Morgan)