Somali Leaders Extend Apology to Ruto Following ‘Uongo’ Jeering Episode

Just two days have passed since President William Ruto faced an unexpected chorus of boos during his recent four-day tour of the Northeastern region. In response, leaders from the Somali community have reached out with heartfelt apologies, seeking to mend any rift. It’s often said that words have power, and it’s evident that this community recognizes this timeless truth.

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Taking center stage at a press conference in Isiolo on a quiet Sunday afternoon, the elders, led by Abdulkadir Shariff—who wears the mantle of the chairperson of the Somali Council of Elders with a blend of dignity and humility—voiced their discontent over the incident. “Our primary incentive for speaking today is driven by the misfortune that transpired during the President’s address at the Prisons land,” Shariff candidly expressed. What allows nations to move past contentious moments? Is it not the willingness to own up to missteps?

Shariff elaborated, “Like all good people of Isiolo, particularly we, the Somali community, find no pleasure in what took place. There was simply no justification for the President to endure such a reception.” His measured words sought to quell any burgeoning tension, reminding everyone that respect is both given and received.

The narrative surrounding the heckling is murky, marked by reports suggesting the involvement of inebriated youths who were not local to the area. Could it be orchestrated chaos? A throng transported from elsewhere? Shariff offered his sincere apologies to the President, asserting, “It was merely a slight nuisance, and I want to assure you that steps are being taken to rectify the situation.” In essence, a pledge to restore harmony.

Reinforcing this sentiment, Idle Hassan, the Secretary-General of the elders’ caucus, voiced his strong condemnation of the heckling. “We criticize in the strongest terms possible the incident where some attempted to disrespect the Head of State,” Hassan echoed, invoking a blend of fatherly reverence and a reminder of mutual respect. Could this be a turning point for the community, one where past grievances are set aside in favor of collaboration?

Hassan continued, “I join others in extending my apologies for the incident. It will not recur, and we offer our gratitude for your dedication and comprehensive approach to pastoralist issues.” His words bespoke a bridge-building effort, both conciliatory and forward-looking, implying that hope can be resurrected from discord.

The Friday debacle also involved political undercurrents, with youth from opposing political factions engaging in vociferous exchanges. President Ruto, unyielding and unperturbed, suggested that the disruptions were orchestrated by drug dealers, employing the local youth to bring havoc. “I am aware that drug dealers have sent the youth to cause disturbances at this meeting. Young people, heed this warning—you cannot intimidate the government. A foreigner cannot make Isiolo a den for drugs. It will not happen,” Ruto declared with resoluteness. The words resonated, imbuing a sense of urgency and vigilance.

Earlier that day, an unexpected twist took place when Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo found herself the target of the crowd’s ire right in front of the President. As she attempted to speak, chants of “Dullo Must Go” reverberated through the air, disrupting the cadence of her address. Political theatre or unheeded grievances laid bare? Such is the fascinating paradox of public life.

This recent confluence of events paints a complex tableau of political dynamics and communal relations in Isiolo. Yet, amidst the ebbs and flows of political discourse, the call for respect, understanding, and cooperation remains timeless. Could these apologies signify a genuine stride toward communal harmony? Perhaps. What stands clear is the community’s earnest desire to mend fences, acknowledging that today’s apologies lay the groundwork for tomorrow’s understanding.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring

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