Somali president extends amnesty to Al-shabaab fighters

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Sunday extended amnesty to Al-Shabaab militants who renounced terrorism and violence.

Speaking during the 73rd anniversary of the Somalia youth league that was instrumental in the country's liberation struggle, Mohamud said his government will not punish Al-Shabaab fighters who laid down arms.

"Our amnesty offer to the youths who have joined Al-Shabaab remains and appeal to them to renounce violence and join us in the task of nation building," said Mohamud.

The Somalia government announced an amnesty for Al-Shabaab fighters last year and has been re-integrating the ones who heeded the offer to surrender arms into the society.

Source: XINHUA