Somalia Defends Referee Omar Artan After U.S. Terrorism Allegations

MOGADISHU, June 13 – Somalia's federal government on Saturday strongly defended Somali referee Omar Artan following allegations linked to terrorism raised by U.S. authorities, insisting that he has no ties to extremist groups.

Somali Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said the government was unequivocally affirming that Artan had never been involved with Al-Shabaab or any other terrorist organisation.

"The Somali government confirms that Omar Artan has no connection whatsoever with terrorism," Fiqi told reporters in Mogadishu. "It is embarrassing enough for the United States that a person granted a visa by its own embassy is later accused of terrorism and sent back."

Fiqi reiterated that the government had found no evidence linking Artan to extremist groups, describing the matter as an isolated case that would not affect relations between Mogadishu and Washington.

"The Federal Government of Somalia once again confirms that Omar Artan has no involvement in terrorist organisations," he said. "This is an individual case and will not have any impact on the strong ties between our two countries."

The minister also stressed Somalia's appreciation for long-standing U.S. support, particularly in the areas of security assistance, military training, and institutional development.

"The United States is a major partner that stands with Somalia and plays an important role in supporting our armed forces and the country's development," Fiqi said. "The relationship between the two countries remains positive, and there is no single issue that can undermine this longstanding cooperation."

Fiqi's remarks come amid growing public debate over Artan's case after allegations made by U.S. authorities sparked controversy. Somalia's government has maintained that the accusations against the internationally recognised referee are unfounded and unsupported by evidence.

GAROWE ONLINE