![Somali lawmaker Abbas Abdullahi Sheikh Siraji was shot by state security forces on 3 May 2017 [Ifonuura/Wikimedia]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Abass_Siraji.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1)
A Somali soldier has been given the death sentence yesterday for killing Abbas Siraj, the minister of public works and reconstruction on 3 May, reported Garowe Online.
Somalia soldier Ahmed Abdullah “Aidid” was sentenced to death for firing two bullets at a vehicle travelling towards the presidential palace, killing the minister.
Aidid can appeal the verdict. According to the BBC, his lawyers argued that the killing was an accident. Adid’s co-defendant, Osman Salad Barren, is to be released.
The minister was the youngest cabinet member in Somalia, at 31 years of age. He served as public works and reconstruction minister.