SOMALIS: Al-Shabah Spokesman Resign

Hiiraan Online Thursday, May 21, 2009 MOGADISHU (HOL) - Sheik Mukhtar Roobow Ali (commonly known as Abu Mansur) has resigned from his post as the Spokesman of Al-Shabab Movement. In a press conference held in Mogadishu, Sheik Abu Mansuur told reporters that he is resigning from his post as the Spokesman for Al-Shabab movement. Abu Mansuur said that Sheik Ali Mohamud Raage (commonly known as Sheik Ali Dheere) will take over the position. Sheik Dheere who was present in the press conference is the head of Al-Shabab forces in the central regions of Somalia. Abu Mansuur who spoke at the press conference said that the movement achieved several milestones while he was the Spokesman and that he is happy to transfer the position to Sheik Ali Dheere. Sheik Ali Dheere also spoke at the press conference and said that he has taken over a position that comes with a heavy responsibility and that he and Sheik Abu Mansuur will work together. Neither of the two men commented the reasons for the transfer of the position at this time. Abu Mansuur has been the spokesman for Al-Shabaab movement in the last several years and has been its face to the outside world. He is also one the top leaders of the movement and currently commands Al-Shabaab forces that control Bay and Bokool regions as well as several town and villages in neighbouring regions.