Nairobi, 5 December 2008 - The UN Special Representative for Somalia, Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah, has appealed for the freeing of hostages being held in Somalia without delay or conditions.
"On the eve of Eid Al Adha, a period of forgiveness, I appeal to all Somalis to help to ensure that those hostages being held, both Somalis and foreigners, are allowed to enjoy their freedom and to return home safe and sound," said Mr Ould-Abdallah. "In addition to being a good action, this would help to improve the image of Somalia and show that its people deserve respect and confidence."
He added that many of those being held captive came to the region to assist the Somali people or to explain their situation to the rest of the world. Their disappearance had caused untold anguish to their friends and families and has unnecessarily hurt the reputation of the Somali people.
"In particular I appeal for the release of the two Catholic nuns who were abducted last month from a town on the border between Kenya and Somalia," said Mr Ould-Abdallah. "They should be allowed to return home immediately and I do not see any excuse for holding them for any longer."
For more information please contact:
Susannah Price, Public Information Officer, UN Political Office for
Somalia (Nairobi, Kenya)
Tel. +254 20 762 1192 (o) or +254 733 902020 (m).
Please visit: www.UN-Somalia.org