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africanews

The UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon urged Somalis people to seek unity of divided country, which celebrated its 50th independence anniversary nearly two decades into bloodshed.

"The secretary-general commends the courage of the people of Somalia and reaffirms that the United Nations will continue to support them to overcome the serious challenges they face and to achieve their dream of living in peace, stability and prosperity," Ban's press office said in a statement.

Ban invited Somalis to reflect back on that founding moment in their history when the people of Somalia looked to the future of their nation with pride and great expectation.

"It is that vision of a united, strong and prosperous Somali nation that should direct the present and future," Ban’s statement said.

The Western-backed government of President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, who controls a few blocks in the capital Mogadishu, celebrated the 50th anniversary of its country, marred in civil war since 1991.

Ahmed joined army troops on the frontlines on Thursday to fight against rebel militias, anonymous official in the presidency told AfricaNews.

The president, dressed in military fatigues, was stationed with Somali government forces and African Union peacekeepers.

"The president who has an AK-47 is on the front line leading the fight against rebels," an official said.

Northern and southern Somalia have got its independence from British and Italy colony in 26 June and 1 July in 1960th and both regions united in first July to look for great Somalia.

But radical group Hizbul Islam announced on Wednesday to ban celebration of Somalia's Independence Day.

"We are warning the radio stations not to attend or celebrate the country’s Independence Day on 1st July. Also not to broadcast the address of the government leaders or politicians on that day," said Moallim Hashi, a former warlord and top leader of Hizbul Islam militias.

But one of the leading radio stations in Mogadishu defied the ban and celebrated for Independence Day and also resumed playing music.

Shabelle's broadcast director, Osman Abdullahi Gure, said the move was a direct response to a recent order from Hizbul Islam militias.