President of Somalia Addresses Son's Involvement in Istanbul Traffic Accident

In a recent turn of events, the President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, spoke out about the involvement of his son, Mohammed Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, in a tragic traffic accident in Istanbul. The incident, which resulted in the passing of a 38-year-old motorcycle courier, Yunus Emre Gocer, has stirred both national and international attention.

President Mohamud, in an interview with The Associated Press, clarified that his son, a 40-year-old physician, did not flee Turkey following the accident. Contrary to rumors, he asserted that his son remained at the scene and even stayed in Istanbul for several days after the unfortunate mishap. Mohamud emphasized that his son retained legal representation and there was no warrant for his arrest at the time he left the country.

Regrettably, six days after the accident, Gocer succumbed to his injuries in a hospital on December 6, prompting Turkish authorities to issue an arrest order for the president's son and restrict his travel. However, reports indicate that the younger Mohamud had already left Turkey before the warrant was issued.

President Mohamud expressed his condolences to Gocer's family, conveying his grief and solidarity with them in their time of loss. He also acknowledged the ongoing pressure for his son's return to face the legal proceedings in Turkey, highlighting that despite being an adult, he had advised his son to present himself before the court.

Amidst growing public outcry and demands for justice, Turkish officials responded, affirming that meticulous international procedures were in progress concerning the accident. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc reiterated the equality before the law and assured a careful handling of the process to bring the suspect to justice, including the involvement of international protocols.

Furthermore, an investigation was launched into the conduct of the police officers responsible for the initial investigation into the accident, amid allegations of allowing Mohamud to evade legal consequences.

Adding a twist to the narrative, a Somali diplomat stationed in Turkey disclosed that the car involved in the accident belonged to the Somali Embassy. The diplomat, speaking anonymously, mentioned the diplomatic status of the president's family and their previous residency in Turkey.

The relationship between Turkey and Somalia, established notably during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit in 2011, has been grounded in mutual support and collaboration. Turkey has been actively engaged in aiding Somalia during times of crisis, providing humanitarian aid, infrastructure development, and even military assistance.

President Mohamud reiterated his commitment to ensuring that his son abides by Turkish law and faces the courts in Turkey. Additionally, he outlined plans for his government to take over security operations from African Union troops and continue combating al-Shabab militants.

As the story unfolds, it underscores the complex intersection of diplomatic ties, legal procedures, and personal responsibilities. It remains a pivotal moment demanding justice, transparency, and respect for the rule of law from all parties involved.