Killing For Taxes – Qoryooleey. January 05, 2006 By Eng. Abdulkadir Khalif Secretary General Southern Somali Union - SSU

It was only last week when we concluded our first annual conference in Columbus, Ohio and issued a press statement condemning all forms of atrocities perpetuated against the people of Southern Somalia by outlaws originating from the central regions. We condemned taxation without representation, especially when we know that it goes straight into the pockets of the thugs collecting it.

We have heard with profound shock and indignation that a young man was shot and killed by the outlaws operating in Qoryooleey when he refused to pay “tax” to them. We hereby condemn that act of murder committed against this young man by the illegal administration in Lower Shabelle. We hold the leaders of that administration personally responsible for all forms of injustices committed against innocent people under their occupation. We will document this act as one of the many that will be investigated and prosecuted when the time of calling comes; and that time is not far away.

We request all peoples of Southern Somalia to document and report any and all acts of injustices and human rights violations perpetuated against them by these lawless gangs and their leaders. We will guarantee them that those gangs will be tried and prosecuted one day Insha Allah.