Friday September 30, 2022
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre have expressed their condolences to the Somali people, especially the people of Hiiraan, on the death of Elmi Hagar Gure, a well-known Hawadle clan elder from Beledweyne.
On Thursday, the traditional elder was killed near the El Qohle village 40km east of Muqakoori district, Hiiraan. According to reports, Al Shabaab fighters launched a dawn raid on a base recently captured by government forces.
Gure was part of a locally-organized militia known as Macawisley, fighting alongside government troops against Al Shabaab.
President Hassan mentioned elder Elmi Hagar's struggle and his statement that he would liberate the country from al-Shabaab or be martyred while fighting against al-Shabaab. His commitment shows that intellectuals, the Armed Forces, and the Somali people, in general, must be committed to the country's liberation.
"Elder Elmi Hagar Gure had two big goals, and he succeeded in both. To liberate his area from terrorists and to be martyred while defending his country from these evil terrorists. He is an example of how this struggle is real for the Somali people and government," said Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
The President added that there are still thousands of people in the country, like the late elder, who are ready to fight Al-Shabaab and liberate the country.
For his part, Prime Minister of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre, said that the deceased was a symbol and a standard for the people who stood up to fight against Al-Shabaab in the country.
"I condole the rightful death of traditional elder Eilmi Hagar Gure, who was martyred today in a battle for justice on the front line of El Qohle in the Hiiraan region. Elmi was one of the first elders who rejected colonialism and the threat of terrorism. He was a symbol and standard of extermination against those who deny peace and stability to our people. I pray to Allah to grant him Janah," said Prime Minister Hamse.
Lower House Speaker Sheikh Adan Madobe, President of Hirshabelle Ali Guudlaawe, and other politicians have also extended their condolences for the death of the prominent elder.