"Somali president, seen as blocking peace, may resign" by Edmund Sanders, Los Angeles Times | December 25, 2008
NAIROBI - Somalia's aging president is expected to resign in the coming days, aides said yesterday, succumbing to threats of impeachment and international sanctions over his refusal to support a national reconciliation plan.
Abdullahi Yusuf, a warlord-turned-statesman, once was viewed as the linchpin of Somalia's transitional government. But in recent months, Yusuf, 74, has repeatedly clashed with the prime minister and has come to be regarded as an obstacle to peace.
Yusuf's departure would mark a turning point for the Horn of Africa nation. It could reignite clan warfare, but it also could clear the way for a new power-sharing government that includes a key Islamist opposition faction.
"Yusuf was always a liability to Somalia and to the peace process," said Alisaid Omar Ibrahim, head of the Center for Peace and Democracy, a Somali peace advocacy group. "This is going to help bring in a new era for Somalia by helping different stakeholders come together to decide the country's future."
If you read more of the story, you will find that the U.S. wanted him out.
What a coincidence he's leaving, huh?
Meanwhile, out on the high seas:
"German Navy thwarts Somali pirates
CAIRO - A German military helicopter foiled an attempt by pirates to seize an Egyptian ship off the coast of Somalia yesterday, swooping in to drive off the attackers after being alerted by a passing vessel. The German success is occurring as more countries send warships to patrol off the chaotic Horn of Africa nation and the United States is pressing for more assertive action against pirates, who have disturbed traffic on one of the world's most important sea routes....
--more--"Did you notice that since China announced it was sending its Navy, the pirate problem has abated somewhat?
Related: U.S. Behind Somali Piracy
Western Warships Protecting Pirates
Piracy "Crisis" Part of New World Order
Somali "Terrorists" Vow to Stop Pirates
NATO To Escort Israeli Weapons Smugglers
Another COINCIDENCE, 'eh?
