AU, UN mourn late Mogadishu mayor, say attacks won’t derail Somalia stabilization

African Union and United Nations envoys in Somalia have mourned the death of Mogadishu mayor Abdirahman Omar Osman, who on Thursday died from injuries sustained in a suicide bomb attack on July 24, saying increased attacks will not derail efforts to stabilize the country.

Francisco Madeira, special representative of the chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, and James Swan, special representative of the UN secretary-general for Somalia, both called for the arrest of those behind the death of Osman.

“As we come to terms with the passing of the mayor, terrorists should be aware that their cowardly attack will not break the people’s resolve to forge ahead,” Madeira said in a statement issued on Thursday evening.

Madeira, who heads the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), said the AU mission, in close collaboration with the Somali government and the international partners, will support Somalis as they continue to fight for stability and strive to bring peace to Somalia.

He said the mayor, together with the resilient Somalis, shared the ideals of justice, peace, security and improved standards of living for the people.

“He was a true friend and companion of AMISOM and supported, without reservations, our mandate to help usher in a stable, peaceful and prosperous Somalia,” said the AU envoy.

“His commitment and belief in a better, stable, and secure Somalia was the spirit that drove him to serve his people with such admirable courage and dedication,” Madeira said.

The mayor and nine of his staff sustained serious injuries after a suicide bomb was detonated within the municipal premises during a meeting at the mayor’s compound, leaving six people dead and unknown number injured.

Swan, the UN envoy, said Osman’s life reflected a deep commitment to Somalia and that his loss is felt by the entire country.

“His work must be continued, and those responsible must be brought to justice,” Swan said, wishing the mayor’s staff who are still hospitalized full and speedy recovery.