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The Independent Observer > News > Somali minister survives ‘assassination attempt’

Somali minister survives ‘assassination attempt’

Somali Foreign Minister Abdisaid Muse Ali says he has survived an assassination attempt involving regional government forces in the north-eastern state of Puntland.

Mr Ali tweeted late on Thursday that he was on holiday in the town of Galkayo when a regional police commander ordered local security forces “to attack us”.

He said the attack happened when his family was having iftar, a meal taken after sunset during Ramadan, that was hosted by a local traditional elder.

“I strongly condemn violence as a means to [achieve] political ends and will hold all involved accountable by all means necessary,” he said

Puntland deputy leader Ahmed Karash condemned the incident and pledged an investigation.

State TV reported that one soldier was killed and three people wounded in the attack on the minister.

The incident came amid heightened tensions and a prolonged electoral process marred by alleged corruption and irregularities.

BBC