Mogadiscio Somalia Domestic Service in Somali 1700 GMT

(Summary) The NFD delegate’s speech was followed by a speech delivered by the head of the delegation of the French Somali Coast, Mr. Umar Hassan Yusuf:

“Convey the heartfelt wishes of the population of the remaining French-dominated part of Somalia for the success of this congress. Ever since its domination by the colonial power of France, we have been persecuted for our faith (words indistinct). The French Government resorted to other measures to mitigate the influence of Islam by imprisoning (words indistinct). Many of our leaders have been arrested on religious grounds time and again. The French Government tried to abolish and wipe out all feelings of Somali nationalism. Its purpose is to exploit our resources and riches for the benefit and (words indistinct). We will never give up our struggle against these alien forces.”