Ahlu Sunna wal Jamaa (ASWJ) Boycots Somalia Consultation

Sep 05, 2011 -- Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a religious scholars in southern Somalia regions have said they will boycott the planned consultation meeting to discuss the situation in Somalia which is expected to be held in Mogadishu.

Caydurus Si'id Ahmad who is the Chairman of Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a in Southern Somalia Regions contacted Shabelle and said they will not be attending the consultation meeting in Mogadishu. The chairman said these talks are not in the interests of the Somali people and accused the United Nations of handpicking five individuals whom he said are not representatives of Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a to represent the group in the talks. He said they have since informed AMISOM [African Union's Mission in Somalia] troops that these delegates do not represent them.

Caydurus also urged the United Nations not to allow the delegates representing Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a from attending the talks saying that they are not the representatives of the group. Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a is among the important administrations in the country who have been invited to take part in the consultation meeting. The government has so far not responded to the statement by this Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a official whose participation in the consultation meeting is important.

Source: Shabeelle Media Network website, Mogadishu, in Somali 05 Sep 11