Press Release: CSO Welcome's the Conviction of Ali Harbi Ali
The Council of Somali Organisations welcomes the conviction of Ali Harbi Ali for the brutal murder of Sir David Amess MP, who tragically died after being stabbed during a meeting with his constituents.
Ali Harbi Ali is a self confessed terrorist who self radicalised. His warped understanding of Islam was triggered by online hatred. The fact that the jury took only 18 minutes and the Judge’s direction that he never had any legal defence is telling.
The Somali community in the UK do not share the ideology of hatred by Islamic extremism. The vast majority of British Somalis are law-abiding, peaceful and upstanding members of society. They make huge contributions to the communities they live in. Radicalisation and extremism are a disease that afflicts many communities. They prey on our youth just as they prey on the most vulnerable of society including non-Muslims. They bypass our families, community mosques, and institutions and rely on the internet to brainwash our young people.
Once again, our thoughts and prayers are with Sir David Amess’s family, loved ones, and anyone who has been affected by this callous act.
Director of CSO, Kahiye Alim said: “Ali Habri Ali’s radicalisation shows the danger of ideologies of hatred to all societies and communities. His version of Islam does not represent the peaceful version of Islam practised by Somalis.”
The Council of Somali organisations remain committed to supporting all our communities and working to create partnership and a better society between all, Let us come together, in unity and against division, in response to this horrific act, in the words of the late Jo Cox MP, we have #MoreInCommon”
Notes:
1. For more information on the Council of Somali Organisations: www.councilofsomaliorgs.com
2. For Media Contact, Kahiye Alim, Director of the Council of Somali Organisations 07516103727