President Mohamud Declares Amnesty for Al-Shabaab Defectors

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal government of Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has announced a general amnesty for young members of the Al-Shabaab militant group who renounce extremist ideology and surrender to the authorities.

The president said the offer, declared during the holy month of Ramadan, provides an opportunity for youth within the group to return to civilian life and reintegrate into their communities.

He called on fighters to lay down their arms and take advantage of the government’s rehabilitation and reconciliation programs, urging them to reunite with their families and contribute to national recovery.

The amnesty forms part of the federal government’s broader strategy to weaken Al Shabaab’s ranks through a combination of military pressure, ideological outreach and reintegration initiatives aimed at undercutting recruitment and restoring stability.