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

MOGADISHU, June 13 – Somalia’s federal government moved on Saturday to firmly rebut U.S. allegations involving Somali referee Omar Artan, saying there is no evidence linking him to terrorism or any extremist network.

Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said the state was standing unequivocally behind Artan, rejecting claims that he had any association with Al-Shabaab or any other militant group.

“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 said Somali authorities had not uncovered any information suggesting Artan was tied to extremist organisations, adding that the matter should be treated as a single case rather than a broader diplomatic issue.

“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 underscored Somalia’s continued gratitude for American assistance over the years, pointing in particular to support for security, military training and institutional strengthening.

“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 comments followed a wave of public discussion after U.S. authorities made the allegations, igniting controversy around Artan, an internationally recognised referee. Somalia’s government has consistently said the accusations are baseless and unsupported by evidence.

AXADLETM