Former Al-Shabaab Intelligence Chief Renounces Terrorism

In his first public statement since surrendering to Somali authorities in December, former senior Al-Shabaab leader Zakariya Ismail Ahmed Hersi rejected the violent methods utilized by the al-Qaeda affiliate and called for peaceful resolution of political differences.

“I can confirm that as of today I am no longer a member of Al-Shabaab and I have renounced violence as a means of resolving conflict and I will aim to achieve my goals towards peaceful means, and through reconciliation and understanding,” Hersi said.

Hersi was the head of al-Shabaab’s clandestine Amniyat network, charged with intelligence activities as well as conducting terrorist attacks. In 2012, the State Department offered monetary rewards for information leading to the location of seven pivotal al-Shabaab leaders, including Hersi. Days before a drone strike eliminated then-current head of the Amniyat network Abdishakur Tahliil, he surrendered to Somali police when they raided a house in which he was hiding.

Hersi was once close to former al-Shabaab leader Ahmed Abdi Godane, who was killed by a US drone strike in September. However, he was one of several leaders believed to have fallen out of favor with Godane who assassinated several dissident commanders in a 2013 purge. Some have theorized that Hersi’s surrender was related to fears that he may be a target of Godane loyalists still active in the organization.

In connection with Hersi’s public statements, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud renewed his offer of amnesty to most al-Shabaab members who renounce violence and participate in rehabilitation processes. Those who committed certain acts such as murder or rape will only be permitted to participate in the job training programs after serving time in prison. The Somali government previously offered amnesty following the death of Godane in 2014.