Rawlings: Al Shabab's deceitful agenda must end!

Former president Jerry John Rawlings has called on the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) to "explore all avenues" to bring an end to activities of Somali-based Al Qaeda-linked terror group, Al Shabaab.

Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings sent a message of condolence and solidarity to the government and people of Kenya following the terrorist attack on the Westgate Mall in Nairobi on Saturday.


One of Ghana's and Africa's Poet, writer, dramatist, actor, teacher, politician, diplomat and statesman, Professor Kofi Awoonor was killed in that attack.


In a signed letter addressed to Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta, the former President who played a key role in the transitional process in Somalia which led to the election of Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud as President of Somalia in 2012, said:


“I write with sadness to express my deepest condolences to the government and people of Kenya and indeed all members of the international community who have been affected in diverse ways by the senseless act of terrorism at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi.”

President Rawlings added: “Kenya has played a key role in ensuring peace in Somalia, first as the host of several international organizations pursuing peace in Somalia and later supporting the peace enforcement mission in that country by joining AMISOM.


“The Westgate attack is a reminder of the huge challenges that still confront Somalia and particularly AMISOM troop contributing countries post-August 2012 and all avenues have to be explored to bring an end to the devious agenda of the Al Shabab insurgents.”


The former President called on “the government and people of Kenya to remain resolute even under these very trying moments and continue to play a vital role in securing stability within the region.”