SOMALIA: Death Toll Mounts in Mogadishu
The Associated Press reports:Â Â Â
Islamic militiamen and secular fighters battled for control of Somalia’s capital Wednesday despite promises of a cease-fire. Six people were killed Wednesday, bringing the death toll to at least 96, with nearly 200 others wounded, according to officials. Heavy weapons fire echoed through the city as the fighting spread to another Mogadishu neighborhood. The battle between the Islamic Court Union and the Alliance for the Restoration of Peace and Counter Terrorism has centered on the northern neighborhood of Sii-Sii, with neither side gaining an advantage. Most of the victims in the most recent fighting were civilians caught in the crossfire. Â
It saddens me to see so many innocent Somalis murdered senselessly every day. However, I believe the blame should go squarely on the shoulders of the United Nations that is refusing the deployment of peace-keeping forces under the auspices of the Arab League, the African Union and IGAD. It time for Mr. Francis Fall, the UN Special Envoy to Somalia to admit his failure and leave quietly. Indeed, I would go as far as saying that the entire staff of the United Nations political office for Somalia must be replaced as soon as possible. The fact is that they are doing more harm than good.Â
My heart bleeds for my country and its people! Unfortunately, there is very little that I can do at the moment! However, I will keep SHOUTING on its behalf as much as I can so should every one else!Â
Click here to view the full report on CNN’s website.