Shocking Reason Why Minneapolis Mayor’s $18K Trip To Somalia Canceled Last-Minute!
Minneapolis mayor’s controversial $18,000 trip to Somalia was abruptly canceled just days before takeoff – find out why! 🌍 #News #Minneapolis #Mayor
Last-Minute Trip Cancellation Sparks Controversy!
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Minneapolis leaders are facing backlash after abruptly canceling a planned trip to Somalia. The trip, intended to boost public safety and strengthen community ties, was nixed just days before takeoff.
A Bold Plan Unfolds
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Police Chief Brian O’Hara had grand plans for a weeklong visit to Somalia this past February. The trip was set to coincide with the city’s celebration of 10 years as a sister city to Bosaso, Somalia.
With the largest Somali-American population in the country, Minneapolis leaders hoped the visit would foster stronger relationships and improve public safety.
Years in the Making
Internal records reveal this international trip had been on Frey’s radar for five years. Emails from Frey’s chief of staff emphasized the significance of the visit, describing it as a crucial opportunity to maintain peace and build steadfast relationships. The trip also aimed to bridge the gap between the Minneapolis Police Department and the local Somali community.
Police Chief’s Involvement
Chief O’Hara’s participation in the trip was also highlighted. According to a spokesperson from the mayor’s office, the chief was eager to learn more about Somali culture, meet key leaders, and build relationships. O’Hara even leveraged his State Department contacts to help facilitate the journey.
Community Division and Support
While some local Somalis opposed the trip, arguing taxpayer money could be better spent and expressing concerns about division within the community, others saw it as a positive step.
Imam and journalist Mohamud Farah stressed the potential benefits, noting the significant lack of trust between police and the Somali community, especially among younger generations.
The High Cost of Diplomacy
The planned trip came with a hefty price tag. Records show flights for Frey, O’Hara, and two additional police officers cost nearly $18,000. The mayor’s ticket was billed to his office, while the police tickets were charged to the MPD budget. Despite the steep costs, the trip was seen as an investment in community relations and public safety.
Abrupt Cancellation
In a dramatic turn of events, the trip was canceled just three days before departure. The mayor’s office cited security concerns as the primary reason.
Emails indicate safety was a pressing issue even before the cancellation. A U.S. State Department “Do Not Travel” advisory for Somalia and significant security concerns raised in January played key roles in the decision.
Financial Fallout
The city managed to get most of the plane tickets refunded, losing only $389 in the process. Despite the setback, both Frey and O’Hara expressed a desire to reschedule the trip, though no new date has been set.
Previous International Efforts
This isn’t Frey’s first attempt at international diplomacy. He visited a sister city in Finland last year, demonstrating his commitment to fostering global relationships.
Whether the Somali trip will eventually take place remains to be seen, but the controversy surrounding its cancellation continues to stir strong emotions within the Minneapolis community.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
I would think there could’ve been more to the explanation than just security concerns.
The people of Minnesota are tired of smoke screens, we should know why exactly this trip was cancelled and if there’s any concerns for we as minnesotans in light of all the scandal surrounding hundreds of millions of dollars being misappropriated by the Somalian Community nonprofits. Why would we want to bring people here that hate us, steal from our government, now security concerns for our elected officials? This whole thing has left minnesotans with a bad feeling, and the media is washing it over with general descriptions and no answers.
Tator tot hotdish, yum! I make my own from scratch and a bit different from the original recipe. Lets get together some day!
Hey C.! Thanks for reading and for your insights. We agree – there’s usually always more to the story (and we wish we knew what)! It’s definitely odd that the official account is so vague. Appreciate your comment! Have a GREAT week – Jack and Kitty
Hey Kim – yes! We’re so down. Hehe. Not beats a good hotdish! Thanks so much for reading and commenting – hope you have an AWESOME week! – Jack and Kitty