US Calls On Somalia To Free Opposition Leaders Immediately

[Hiiraan boy]

MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP)--The U.S. Tuesday called for the immediate release of opposition leaders arrested by the Somali government.

The U.S. State Dept. made the call in a statement issued after U.S. diplomats met with Prime Minister Mohamed Ali Gedi in Nairobi, Kenya and they discussed an amnesty for opposition members announced by President Abdullahi Yusuf.

The U.S. "urged Prime Minister Gedi to ensure the immediate release of individuals currently in detention consistent with the terms of the amnesty, and prevent further harassment of the opposition and the press," the statement said.

"We also expressed our concern that recent arrests and detentions of prominent citizens and respected non-governmental organizations in Mogadishu undermine efforts for a national dialogue and political reconciliation."