Somalia: ex-minister accused of treason freed on bail

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Government of Somalia has on Wednesday night freed Abdirahman Abdishkur, former Presidential Candidate after 3 days in Mogadishu prison, Garowe Online reports.

The government agreed to free the renowned politician on bail after lengthy talks with his representatives. He has been accused of treason and criminal act.  

Abdishakur was spotted in a short video clip, posted on social media with a bandage on his right hand sitting along with clan elders, government officials, members of Somali parliament and several leading officials.

Galmudug State President Ahmed Dualle Geelle, Somalia's Internal Security minister Mohamed Abukar Islow, the governor of Benadir Thabit Abdi Mohamed, Military commanders were also seen in the film.

"Justice prevails and injustice fails," said Abdishakur on first Twitter post after his conditions-based release.

On Tuesday, Dec 19, Abdishakur appeared before a court in Mogadishu to face treason charges of mobilizing parliamentary motions against the country's President and PM.

He was also blamed for receiving funds from foreign countries to unseat the current government.

The court, however, has postponed the hearing of the charges against Abdishkur to Thursday, Dec 21 and gave the office of the Attorney General 48 hours deadline to complete its evidence supporting the case.

He sustained slight wound on his hand during his arrest last Monday midnight by NISA forces in a deadly attack on his residence near the city's Aden Abdulle International Airport which left 6 bodyguards dead.

GAROWE ONLINE