[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 95 (Wednesday, June 13, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S7629]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     PASSING OF ADEN ABDULLE OSMAN

  Mr. COLEMAN. Madam President, I would like to take the opportunity to 
express sorrow on behalf of the Somali community of Minnesota, which is 
currently mourning the death of an important figure for Somalia, former 
President Aden Abdulle Osman. Aden Abdulle Osman, known by many Somalis 
as Aden Adde, passed away at the age of 99 on June 7, 2007.
  Aden Abdulle Osman became the first President of Somalia in 1960 
after the country gained its independence on July 1. Mr. Osman served 
as President of the newly formed Somalia until June 10, 1967. President 
Osman led his country during the critical time of its formation and 
development into a full-fledged state. When he lost the Presidential 
election in 1967, President Osman graciously ceded his position to his 
opponent, Abdirashid Ali Shermarke. In doing so, Aden Abdulle Osman set 
an example for the peaceful transfer of democratic power, which is a 
critical aspect of all democratic systems. For this reason, Aden 
Abdulle Osman is viewed throughout Somalia and Africa as a model of 
statesmanship that seeks the greater good.
  I am privileged to represent the State that has the largest Somali 
community in the U.S. The Somalis of Minnesota represent a thriving 
community that has enriched the fabric of our State through its vibrant 
culture. I would like to join my Somali constituents in expressing 
sorrow for Aden Abdulle Osman's death. It is my sincere hope that the 
current leaders of Somalia will look to his leadership as an example, 
and that such leadership will serve to usher Somalia towards peace, 
stability and democracy.

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