Machar decries terrorist attack in Kenya

September 23, 2013 (JUBA) – South Sudan’s former vice-president, Riek Machar has described as “very unfortunate” Saturday’s terrorist attack in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, that left dozens of people dead.

Following the incident, Machar on Sunday, had a phone conversation with the Kenyan president, Uhuru Kenyatta, in which the two leaders condemned the deadly incident.

James Gatdet Dak, the press secretary to the former vice-president told Sudan Tribune that Machar expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Kenyan nation and the families of the loved ones who perished in the attack.

A Somali militant group, Al-shabaab said they carried out the attack in the heart of the capital.

The hooded and armed gunmen numbering about 10 stormed Westgate Mall; a shopping centre frequented by wealthy Kenyans and westerners, and started shooting randomly.

Machar said it was saddening for such an incident to occur in the neighbouring country which is seen to be a beacon for peace in the region, expressing hope that the issue would be amicably resolved.

Such incidents, he added, would further disturb peace in the region.

(ST)