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____________________ WardheerNews: Kenya has announced on Sunday, Oct 16 it's forces will cross the border into Somalia under what it termed as "Kenya security interest,” What is the position of the TFG on this imminent incursion of Kenyan forces in Somalia? Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yariisow) - Somalia and Kenya have an excellent relationship and have been working together for training and logistical support to Somali troops. Somali troops are now in Somalia having completed their training in Kenya and they are making progress in capturing more grounds from Al-Shabaab, such as Qooqaani and the nearby villages. Kenya troops are stationed on their side of the border but have not crossed in to Somalia. WardheerNews - According to many reports from independent eye witnesses, it is established that the Kenyan army crossed the border in to Somalia at Dhoobley. Has the Kenyan authorities notified your government and received approval prior to entering Somalia? If your administration has approved the foreign troops entering Somalia without the consent of the Somali parliament (TFP); doesn’t this constitute an act of treason against an independent country -, Somalia? Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yariisow) - You shouldn't jump to a conclusion of issues that you are only hearing rumours. Our forces are ready to defeat Al-Shabaab and we are very thankful for the logistical support from Kenya. We can take you to Dhoobley and other areas if you like. WardheerNews - We remember the Ethiopia invasion of 2006 with all of its might has miserably failed to curb the extremist elements in Somalia, but to the contrary it has produced more precarious extremists and the current strength of Al shabaab could be attributed mainly to the Ethiopian invasion; thus isn't this a repeat of the history where Al Sahbab will find new mechanism to recruit more members due to the actions of the Kenyan army? Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yariisow) - al-Shabaab has lost the support of the people due to their actions, people of Somalia do not support at all to Al-Shabaab, rather it is contrary they are supporting the TFG who is winning the hearts and minds of the people. WardheerNews - The endless chaos and devastation that engulfed southern Somalia could perhaps be addressed through negotiation. You are aware that the US and Afghan governments are entering negotiations with the outlawed Taliban of yesterday. Is there a possibility of starting negotiations with the moderate elements of Al Shabab to find a lasting solution to south Somalia’s problems? Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yariisow) - The TFG's policy is to end the conflict through reconciliation and we have offered so many times for Al-Shabaab to come to the table. We have offered an alternative to the young people in Al-Shabaab, and some of these young people are now receiving rehabilitation in the TFG controlled areas. We will continue pursuing our agenda for reconciliation, however, foreign fighters in Al-Shabaab will not accept our offer, therefore, we are also ready to fight against them. WardheerNews - Somalia and much of the Horn of Africa has been hit by a devastating famine, opening up a new frontier of war with the Kenyan army could worsen the already grim conditions in the country what is the TFG's plan to stop from this taking rout? Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yariisow) - The TFG do not need neighbouring forces entering our territory, but we need to build our own forces so that Al-Shabaab can be defeated. Our first priority is to bring peace and stability in the country, which I am sure you will agree with me. WardheerNews - Thank you Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yarisow) - You are welcome Other interviews that WardheerNews had with Somali professionals and other scholars:
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