Journalists’ unions, media organisations condemn latest violations against media freedom and journalists in Somalia, including the restrictions, threats and censorship

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June 16, 2022

SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin and FESOJ Secretary-General, Farah Omar (centre) speak on behalf of SMSJ during a press conference in Mogadishu. — SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin and FESOJ Secretary-General, Farah Omar (centre) speak on behalf of SMSJ during a press conference in Mogadishu, Thursday 16 June, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 16 June 2022 – Somali journalists unions and media houses associations under the umbrella of Somali Mechanism for the Safety of the Journalists (SMSJ) today condemned the latest violations against the freedom of the media and journalists in Somalia, including the restrictions, threats and censorship by the office of the Somali President.

On Monday 13 June, journalists covering the visit of U.S Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Victoria Nuland in Mogadishu, were blocked and even threatened by the Villa Somalia communications officials. We have been alerted that presidential staff including those working at the communications unit and the president’s security detail locked journalists in a small room for nearly an hour blocking their access to the venue. Journalists were initially registered to cover a supposedly joint press conference by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Under Secretary Nuland. However, President Mohamud quit the press conference over unjustified reasons while only ambassador Nuland briefed the local journalists.

While it was unfortunate for the new president, whom the public have been waiting to learn about his new measures to rebuild the shattered country and plans for security and economic reform and improve human rights situations, to miss this important opportunity of briefing journalists, it was also unacceptable the threats and harassment imposed on the local journalists who were at the hangar to cover this vital event.

On Wednesday, June 15, security guards at Villa Somalia barred journalists from covering the appointment of the new prime minister, Hamze Abdi Barre at Villa Somalia. The journalists were all accredited and even got invitation to cover the press conference by President Mohamud as he announces the new prime minister.

We are also concerned about the new threats made this week by officials from the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) against the independent media over their coverage on the Ikran Tahlil case.

Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu today, Mr. SMSJ Chair, Mr. Farah Omar Nur and SMSJ Secretary-General, Mr. Abdalle Ahmed Mumin condemned the recent restrictions and threats as they also called for immediate actions by the authorities.

“We strongly condemn Villa Somalia’s new tactics of harassment, repression and intimidation against journalists. We are also concerned about the new threats from the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) targeting media houses covering the case of Ikran Tahlil. This threat must stop, and the motives of those involved – in particular NISA which is known for its poor record of human rights – must be investigated,” SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, who is also the Secretary-General of SMSJ said. “We were indeed optimistic that the new leadership will carry out measures to improve the deteriorating human rights situation in Somalia and that of the freedom of expression. Unfortunately, there is a glimmer of hope.”

“The era of censorship is over. If the beginning of this new government is like this, what can we expect at its end? We suggest that the current violations of press freedom and the work of journalists by presidential officials be addressed immediately,” Mr. Farah Omar Nur, Secretary General of FESOJ and Chair of SMSJ said.

FULL JOINT STATEMENT

SJS trains 25 journalists in Somalia’s Galmudug on human rights reporting

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June 13, 2022

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Participants pose for a group photo following the conclusion of a three-day human rights journalism training in Galmudug, Somalia on Saturday 11 June 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 13 June 2022 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) has completed a human rights reporting training in Adado, Galmudug State, benefiting 25 local journalists from local independent media outlets including those from marginalised stations and women reporters.

The three-day training was supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). It aims to increase journalists’ understanding of human rights reporting and to enable them to collect evidences, document and report incidents of human rights violations and advocate for accountability. Through this initiative, SJS has established a network of 150 human rights journalists across Somalia.

Galmudug Minister of Information, Ahmed Falagle (centre), followed by Adado District Administration representative, Abdirahman Moalim, a representative from Galmudug Ministry of Information join SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin and trainer Abdirahman Hassan for a group photo to officiate the human rights journalism training in Galmudug, Thursday 9 June, 2022. |PHOTO/SJS.

At his closing remarks, SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, has mentioned that the training initiative attempts to fill in the gap left by the limited resources for local media and the shortage of professional trainings for journalists which has made the media less focused on human rights events in Somalia.

SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin speaks at the opening of the three-day human rights journalism training in Galmudug on Thursday 9 June 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

“We have arrived in Galmudug to train journalists on human rights reporting. The region is now facing a number of critical issues including the impact of the drought that has affected the lives of the people in this region, including the internally displaced communities due to the armed conflict and those already affected by the climate change. Meanwhile, on other front, the formation of local district councils has just started with the low participation of women. These are the issues the local media needs to address, ” SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin said.

Mr. Mumin urged the journalists to apply topics covered in the training, including utilisation of the Somali Constitution, international frameworks and the principles of human rights when when documenting and reporting human rights abuses in the region.

Galmudug Minister of Information, Ahmed Shire Falagle speaks at the opening of the three-day human rights journalism training in Galmudug on Thursday 9 June, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

Galmudug Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Ahmed Shire Falagle, who attended the opening of the training, underlined the inter-connection of the protection of human rights and peace-building in order to create trust within the community. He called on journalists to avail their advocacy reporting to provide humanitarian assistance to the drought-affected communities in Galmudug. He also appealed SJS to provide more training to local journalists in the remote locations of Galmudug.

“The current drought has severely affected people and animals. I hope this training will lead journalists to draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis in the country and in Galmudug and to provide a quick response to the vulnerable communities. I also urge journalists to respect the ethics of the media and show greater responsibility when conducting journalistic reporting,” Minister Falagle said.

Director of Radio Adado, Sharma'arke Mohamed Mohamud, speaks at the opening of the three-day human rights journalism training in Galmudug, Thursday 9 June, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS. — Director of Radio Adado, Sharma’arke Mohamed Mohamud, speaks at the opening of the three-day human rights journalism training in Galmudug, Thursday 9 June, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

The Director of Radio Adado, Sharma’arke Mohamed Mohamud, who is among the participants, indicated the training was the first of its kind for Galmudug journalists and called for more professional training for journalists.

“We really appreciate the roe of SJS and its decision to train journalists in Galmudug, especially in Adado. As we know human rights issues are underreported in the country because of the lack of prioritising for our newsrooms. That is why such training on human rights is of course important topic for us,” Sharmarke added.

Sabiriin Hassan Mohamed of Bulsho TV and Radio Adado speaks during the opening of the three-day human rights journalism training in Galmudug, Thursday 9 June, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

Sabiriin Hassan Mohamed of Bulsho TV and Radio Adado highlighted the need to enhance the role of female journalists in terms of their right to receive training and support in acquiring skills to enhance their careers.

“Many women journalists who work in the local media drop or quit the profession and the reason is the high level disappointment they face from their day-to-day duties. Their role is not appreciated and they can not work independently from the male domination as they do not have equipment such as cameras and computers,” Sabiriin concluded.

At the end of the training, an official representative of the Adado District Administration, Abdirahman Moalim Abdullahi joined SJS Secretary-General to officially award certificates to the participants.

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SJS oo tababarka habka tebinta wararka xuquuqda aadahan u qabatay warfidiyeenka magaalada Cadaado ee Galmudug

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June 13, 2022

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Wariyayaasha dhameystay tababarka habka tebinta wararka xuquuqda aadanaha. | SAWIRKA/SJS.

MUQDISHO, Soomaaliya 13 June 2022 – Ururka Suxufiyiinta Soomaaliyeed (SJS) ayaa magaalada Cadaado ee maamulka Galmudug ku soo gabagabeeyay tababarka habka tebinta wararka xuquuqda aadanaha oo ay ka faa’ideysteen 25 saxafi oo ka kala socda warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan. Tababarka wuxuu socday muddadii u dhexeysay 9 – 11 June, 2022.

Tababarkan oo socday saddex maalin ayaa waxaa taageeray National Endowment for Democracy (NED). Wuxuuna ujeedkiisu ahaa sidii sare loogu qaadi lahaa fahamka saxafiyiinta ee wararka xuquuqda aadanaha iyo inay awood u yeeshaan ururinta, diiwaangelinta iyo tebinta dhammaan dhacdooyinka xadgudubyada xuquuqda aadanaha si ay taasi uga caawiso dhibbaneyaasha helista u qareemis. Tababarka wuxuu qeyb ka yahay lix qeyb oo tababarro ah oo loogu talagalay sare u qaadista xirfadda wariyayaasha ka warama arrimaha xuquuqda aadanaha, kuwaasoo SJS ay u abuurtay gole ay ku mideysan yihiin oo ka kooban 150 saxafi oo ku nool gudaha Soomaaliya.

Xoghayaha Guud ee SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin oo furitaanka tababarkan ka hadlay ayaa tilmaamay in yaraanshaha xirfadda saxafiyiinta ku koray muddada burburka dalka Soomaaliya iyo fursadda tababarrada oo aan jirin ama yar darteed ay sababtay in warbaahintu ahmiyad siin weyso wararka la xiriira dhacdooyinka xuquuqda aadanaha.

“Waxaan nimid Galmudug si aan saxafiyiinta u tababarno difaacidda xuquuqda aadanaha. Waxaana ku soo beegannay iyadoo ay jiraan arrimo muhiim ah sida abaaraha saameeyay nolosha dadweynaha ku nool gobolkan oo ay kujiraan dadka horeyba ay u aafeysay dhibaatooyinka ka dhashay isbeddellada . Dhanka kale, waxaa hadda bilawday dhismaha golayaasha deegaanka oo ay yar tahay ka qeybgalka dumarka ee dhanka tartanka xafiisyada dadweynaha,” ayuu yiri Xoghayaha SJS, Abdalle Mumin.

Xoghayaha Guud ee SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin oo furitaanka tababarkan ka hadlay, 9 June, 2022. | SAWIRKA/SJS.

Mr. Mumin ayaa u rajeeyay saxafiyiinta inay dhaqngeliyaan waxyaabaha ay ku barteen tababarka oo ay ku jiraan dastuurka dalka, shuruucda caalamiga ah iyo mabaadii’da aas aaska u ah difaacidda iyo dhowrista xuquuqda aadanaha.

Wasiirka Warfaafinta, Dhaqanka iyo Dalxiiska ee Galmudug, Axmed Shire Falagle oo kasoo qeybgalay furitaanka tababarka ayaa hoosta ka xariiqay muhimadda difaacidda xuquuqda aadanaha u leedahay dhismaha nabadda deegaanka iyo is aaminaadda bulshada. Wuxuu wasiirku ka codsaday saxafiyiinta inay u qareemidooda uga faa’ideeyaan sidii gargaarka bani’aadannimada loo gaarsiin lahaa bulshada abaaruhu saameeyeen ee ku nool Galnudug, isagoo hawlwadeenna SJS ka codsaday inay tababarrada gaarsiiyaan dhammaan saxafiyiinta ku nool deegaanada Galmudug.

Wasiirka Warfaafinta, Dhaqanka iyo Dalxiiska ee Galmudug, Axmed Shire Falagle oo hadal ka jeediyay furitaanka tababarka 9 June, 2022. | SAWIRKA/SJS.

“Deegaankeennu waxaa ka taagan abaar saameysay dad iyo duunyo. Waxaan rajeynayaa in tababarkan uu warfidiyeenka u horseedi doonoo inay dareenka caalamka ku soo jeediyaan dhibaatadda bani’aadannimo ee ka jirta Galmudug iyo sidii dadka nugul ee bulshada ka midka ah loogu gurman lahaa. Waxaan kaloo saxafiyiinta kula dardaarmayaa inay dhowraan anshaxa saxaafadda oo ay muujiyaan mas’uuliyad weyn marka ay tebinayaan wararkooda,” ayuu yiri wasiir Falagle.

Agaasimaha Radio Cadaado, Sharma’arke Mohamed Mohamud ayaa sheegay in tababarkan uu yahay midkii ugu horeeyay ee loo sameeyo saxafiyiinta Galmudug isagoo codsaday in tababarro xirfadeed oo badan lasiiyo saxafiyiinta.

Agaasimaha Radio Cadaado, Sharma'arke Mohamed Mohamud oo ka hadlay furitaanka tababarka 9 June, 2022. | SAWIRKA/SJS. — Agaasimaha Radio Cadaado, Sharma’arke Mohamed Mohamud oo ka hadlay furitaanka tababarka 9 June, 2022. | SAWIRKA/SJS.

“Saxafiyiinta Galmudug, gaar ahaan kuwa Cadaado ma helaan tababarro. Kani waa midkii ugu horreeyay. Waxaan si aad ah ugu faraxsanahay in SJS iyo NED ay nasoo gaarsiiyeen tababarka xuquuqda aadanaha oo ah mowduuca muhiim noo ah,” ayuu yiri Sharma’arke.

Sabiriin Xasan Maxamed oo ka hawlgala Bulsho TV iyo Radio Cadaado ayaa muujisay in loo baahan yahay in sare loo qaado kaalinta gabdhaha saxafiyiinta iyadoo laga eegayo xuquuqdooda helista tababarro iyo taageerada helista xirfado sare u qaadaya shaqadooda.

Sabiriin Xasan Maxamed oo ka hawlgala Bulsho TV iyo Radio Cadaado oo ka hadashay furitaanka tababarka 9 June, 2022. | SAWIRKA/SJS.

“Dumar badan ayaa ka hawlgala warbaahinta gudaha laakiin inta ma muuqato kaalintooda waxaana sabab u ah iyagoon helin fursad tababar iyo taageero. Sidoo kale dumarka saxafuiyiinta ma awoodaan inay si iskood ah u hawklgalaan waayo khibradooda way yar tahay mana heli karaan qalabkii ay ku shaqeyn lahaayeen,” ayey tiri Sabiriin.

Gabagabadii tababarka waxaa shahado guddoonsiinta kasoo qeybgalay Cabdiraxmaan Macalin Cabdullaahi oo ka tirsan maamulka degmada Cadaado ee Dowlad Gobolleedka Galmudug.

Nagala soco Facebook iyo Twitter si aad u hesho macluumaad ku saabsan shaqada SJS

WAR MURTIYEED WADAJIR AH OO AY SOO SAAREEN URURRADA SAXAFIYIINTA IYO WARBAAHINTA SOOMAALIYEED EE MADAXA-BANNAAN

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June 4, 2022

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Somali Independent media houses and journalists issue a joint communique addressing the state of freedom of expression and human rights in Somalia on Saturday, 4 June, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

MUQDISHO, Soomaaliya 4 Juun 2022 – Maanta oo ay taariikhdu tahay 4 Juun 2022, Ururrada Saxafiyiinta iyo Warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed ee madaxa-bannaan ayaa kulan wadatashi ah ku yeeshay magaalada Muqdisho iyagoo diiradda ku saaray isbeddellada cusub ee ka dhacay dalka kaddib doorashadii madaxtinnimada ee dhacday 15kii May 2022 iyo xaaladda xorriyadda warbaahinta ee dalka, oo heerkii ugu liitay gaartay shanti sano ee lasoo dhaafay.

Ururrada Saxafiyiinta iyo Warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed waxay si gaar ah u falanqeeyeen xeerka qallafsan ee warbaahinta ee la meelmariyey bishii August 2020, xarigga iyo beegsiga lagu hayo saxafiyiinta Soomaaliyeed, adeegsiga Xeerka Ciqaabta Soomaaliyeed ee loo adeegsado warbaahinta, caqabadda ka taagan helista xogta iyo inaanu jirin sharci difaacaya xaqa helista xogta ee muwaadiniinta Soomaaliyeed.

Ururrada Saxafiyiinta iyo Warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed waxay sidoo kale falanqeeyeen noocyadii kala geddisnaa ee tacaddiyadii loo geystay warbaahinta iyo saxafiyiinta Soomaaliyeed, iyo inaan dadkii geystay tacaddiyadaasi aanan weli lala xisaabtamin, iyagoo walaac ka muujiyay heerka liita ee tacadiyada xuquuqda aadanaha ee ka jira dalka.

Ururrada Saxafiyiinta iyo Warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed waxay ku baaqayaan Dowladda Cusub ay muujiso rabitaan ku aaddan inay si daacadnimo ah u wajahdo waxna uga qabato tacaddiyada aan la isu ciqaabin ee loo geysto warbaahinta iyo saxafiyiinta, ay dowladda ka digtoonaato dhaqamadii laga bartay Dowladdii hore ee cabburinta saxaafadda.

Wadatashiga kaddib, Ururrada Saxafiyiinta iyo Agaasimeyaasha Warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed waxay soo saareen baaq ku socda Madaxweynaha cusub ee JFS, mudane Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud, Guddoomiyaha Golaha Shacabka iyo Guddoomiyaha Aqalka Sare iyo guud ahaan xubnaha Barlamaanka Federaalka, iyo dowlad gobolleedyada dalka.

Ururrada Saxafiyiinta iyo Agaasimeyaasha Warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed waxay ku baaqayaan in gurmadka deg deg ah laga gaaro dadweynaha u dhimanaya gaajada iyo harraadka ka jira dalka ee ka dhashay abaarta ku habsatay dalka. Warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan waxaan usoo jeedinaynaa inay kaalinteeda ka qaadato sidii dhibaatada jirta loo soo bandhigi lahaa, isla markaana loo badbaadin lahaa dadka dhimanaya, dadweynaha loogu wacyigelin lahaa baaxadda dhibaatada jirta.

Haddaba waxaan soo jeedinaynaa qodobada soo socda inay dowladda cusub meelmariso:

Waxaan ku baaqeynaa:

1. In la dhowro xorriyadda hadalka Soomaaliya, isla markaana si deg deg madaxweynaha cusub ee JFS iyo madaxda maamul gobolleedyada uu u soo saaraan xeer joojinaya xarigga sharci darrada ah ee lagu hayo saxafiyiinta Soomaaliyeed guud ahaan dalka, isla markaana faraya hay’adaha amniga iyo garsoorka inay ixtiraamaan xorriyadda warbaahinta si waafaqsan qodobada 18aad iyo 32aad ee Dastuurka.

2. In la furo dib u eegista iyo wax-ka-beddelka Xeerka Warbaahinta ee August 2020, laguna daro talooyinka ururrada saxaafadda iyo warbaahinta si uu u noqdo xeerka mid la jaanqaadi kara dastuurka dalka iyo xeerarka kale ee caalamiga iyo kuwa gobol ee ku saabsan xuquuqda aadanaha iyo xorriyadda saxaafadda. Waana in Xeerka Warbaahinta ku caddahay dhowrista xuquuqda dumarka iyo tan shaqaalenimo ee warfidiyeenka. Waana in la is waafajiyaa Xeerka Warbaahinta heer federaalka marka la dhameeyo dib u eegista iyo sixitaanka.

3. In Madaxweynaha JFS uu soo saaro hakin (moratorium) adeegsiga Xeerka Ciqaabta Soomaaliyeed ee loo adeegsado warbaahinta iyo saxafiyiinta. Saxaafaddu waa mihnad xalaal ah, ma ahan denbi, kamana dhalan karto ciqaab.

4. In baaritaan caddaalad ah lagu sameeyo dhammaan dilalka, dhaawacyada iyo falalka tacaddiga ah ee loo geystay saxafiyiinta Soomaaliyeed, loona oggolaado dhibbanayaasha iyo qoysaskooda inay dacwad ka furtaan maxkamadaha sharciga ee dalka si dadkii ka danbeeyay tacaddiyadaasi loo horkeeno maxkamad caddaalad oo run ah.

5. In Madaxtooyada Villa Somalia iyo mas’uuliyiinta kale ee dowladda ay si cad u cambaareeyaan weerarada iyo tacaddiga loo geysto saxafiyiinta, loogana digo saraakiisha dowladda oo dhan inay tacaddi u geystaan saxafiyiinta iyo warbaahinta, kuwa geystana lagula xisaabtamo si ay u dhammaato isla xisaabtan la’aanta daashatay dalka.

6. In saxaafadda loo furo helista xogta, xafiisyada dowladda heerarkeeda kala duwanna ay joojiyaan in muuqaallo iyo sawirro lasoo jarjaray lala wadaago warbaahinta. Xafiisyada muhiimka ah sida Madaxtooyada, Xafiiska Ra’isul Wasaaraha, Baarlamaanka iyo Wasaaradaha in saxaafadda madaxa-bannaan ay kasoo warami karaan ayna ku yeeshaan wakiillo wareed. Waana in Madaxweynuhu dhiirigeliyaa in kulamada jaraa’id ay noqdaan kuwo furan oo xogta lagula wadaago saxaafadda iyo dadweynaha.

7. Inaan la isticmaali karin makarafoonnada iyo logo-yooyinka ay leeyihiin warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan ee sida sharci darrada ah loo geeyay madaxtooyada Villa Somalia iyagoo aanay joogin saxafiyiinta warbaahintaasi.

8. In la dardargeliyo lana soo saaro xeer oggolaanaya xaqa helista xogta si waafaqsan Qodobka 32aad ee Dastuurka.

9. Marka la dhameeyo dib u eegista iyo sixitaanka Xeerka Warbaahinta, in la dardargeliyo dhismaha Golaha Warbaahinta oo madax-bannaan oo Baarlamaanka ku leeyahay kor-joogteyn, xubnihiisuna ay ku yimaadaan xulis caddaalad ah oo loo dhan yahay, kana fog saameynta dowladda. Waana in warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan oo ay ku jiraan dumarka ay ka qaataan doorkooda iyagoo ah saamiley ee aan ahayn marti.

10. In la dardargeliyo, lana dhammeystiro dhismaha Guddiga Xuquuqda Aadanaha oo weli aan la dhameystirin si loo baaro, loona diiwaangeliyo tacaddiyada xuquuqda aadanaha eel aga galo muwaadiniinta Soomaaliyeed, loo-lana xisaabtamo kuwa ku xadgudba xuquuqda aadanaha. Sidoo kale, Dowladda Cusub waa inay dardargelisaa dhisidda garsoor madax-bannaan oo caddaalad ah oo muhiim u ah dhismaha nabad waarta iyo dimuqraadiyad ka hirgasha Soomaaliya.

11. Inaan xafiisyada dowladda iyo xilalka kala duwan aan loo oggolaan inay qabtaan dadka galay ama ku eedeysan tacaddiyada xuquuqda aadanaha oo ay ku jiraan tacaddiyada ka dhanka ah xorriyadda warbaahinta iyo xuquuqda saxafiyiinta.

12. In warbaahinta guud ahaan isugu timaado shirweynaha warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed kaasoo waqtiga la qabanayo aan dib kasoo sheegi doono.

-DHAMMAAD-

WAR SAXAAFADEEDKA OO PDF

Joint Statement by the Somali Independent Journalists Unions and Media Houses on the State of F.O.E and Human Rights in Somalia

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June 4, 2022

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MOGADISHU, Somalia 4 June 2022 – Today, 4 June 2022, the Somali independent journalists’ organizations/unions and the independent media houses associations held a consultative meeting in Mogadishu focusing on the latest developments in the country on the aftermath of May 15th presidential election and the state of freedom of expression and media freedom in Somalia, which has been ranked as the worst in the last five years.

The Somali journalists’ unions and the independent media houses precisely discussed the draconian Somali Media Law of August 2020, the endless arbitrary detention and targeting of Somali journalists, the implications of the enforcement of the Somali Penal Code against journalists and the media, the barriers to accessing information and the absence of the Access to Information law which could have granted Somali citizens the right to information.

The Somali journalists’ unions and the independent media houses also deliberated the various types of violations against Somali media and journalists, and the fact that perpetrators of these violations have not yet been held accountable, while raising concerns about the seriousness of human rights abuses in the country.

The Somali journalists’ unions and the independent media houses call on the the Government to show a sincere commitment to address human rights violations including the impunity for crimes against the media and journalists. The new leadership of the Somali Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) be mindful and cease the previous repressive practices against the independent media employed by the former leadership of the Federal Government.

Following the consultations, the Somali journalists’ unions and the independent media houses issued an urgent call to the new President of FGS, H.E Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the Speaker of the House of the People (Parliament) and the Speaker of the Upper House, the lawmakers of the Federal Parliament and the Federal Member States.

We noted the dire consequences of the current drought in the country as we call for immediate assistance to the people dying of hunger and thirst in the country as a result of this drought. We also call on the independent media to play their part in highlighting the crisis to save lives and raising public awareness of the scale of the humanitarian crisis.

SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin reads the joint communique to the press on Wednesday, 4 June 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

We, therefore propose the following points for the new leadership of FGS:

Protect the freedom of expression in Somalia, and expedite a presidential decree by the new President of FGS and the heads of the Federal Member States to enforce end of the illegal detention of Somali journalists throughout the country, and instruct the security and judicial institutions to respect freedom of expression and freedom of the media in accordance with Articles 18 and 32 of the Provisional Constitution.
Launch review and amend the Somali Media Law (of August 2020) by incorporating recommendations from the independent media and journalists’ organizations and in-compliance with the country’s constitution and other international and regional human rights standards. The Media Law must clarify the protection of women’s rights in the media and labor rights for working journalists. The Federal Member States should also harmonize the Media Law upon review and amendment at the federal level.
The new President should issue a moratorium on the application of the outdated Somali Penal Code on cases related to freedom of expression and journalists. Journalism is a legitimate profession and it is not a crime, therefore nobody should be punished for exercising journalism.
A fair and thorough investigation should be opened into all killings, injuries and other abuses against journalists, and victims and their families should be provided the opportunity to file lawsuits in the country’s courts and that those found guilty should be brought to justice.
The Office of the President and other government officials should openly condemn attacks on journalists, strictly warn all government officials against attacks and harassment of journalists and the media, and should hold the perpetrators of crimes against journalists accountable in order to end the culture of impunity that has ravaged the country’s justice system.
Independent media and journalists should have access to key government offices at all levels without any obstacle, authorities should stop sharing pre-edited videos and images and instead independent media and journalists should be allowed to interview and scrutinize key government officials including those at the Presidency, the Office of the Prime Minister, the Parliament and the Ministries. We recommend, the independent media to assign reporters to cover these public offices. The President of the Somali Federal Republic should encourage open press briefings by government officials as a way to provide information to the media and the general public.
Villa Somalia should cease the illegal use of independent media logos that have been deployed into the presidential press unit without the consent of the independent media. We suggest that accredited journalists to cover the press briefings at the Presidency.
The federal parliament should expedite and enact a law that recognizes and protects the Access to Information in accordance with Article 32 of the Provisional Constitution.
Upon completion of the review and amendment of the Media Law, we recommend the establishment of an independent Somali Press Council under the oversight of the Parliament and free from the influence of the government, and its members to be elected in a fair and inclusive manner. The independent media and journalists should play their part in the process to form the independent Press Council as an important stakeholder and not as guests.
The formation of the yet-to-be-completed Somali Human Rights Commission should be accelerated and completed to investigate and document human rights abuses in Somalia, and to hold perpetrators accountable. At the same time, the new government must reform and create an independent and just judiciary which is critical to peace-building and democracy in Somalia.
The new leadership of FGS should refrain from appointment of the known human rights violators – including violations of press freedom and the rights of journalists – for government positions.
The Somali media and journalists will convene for a general Somali media stakeholders’ conference which will be announce in a later date.

-END-

JOINT STATEMENT IN ENGLISH PDF

JOINT STATEMENT SOMALI PDF

As Somalia’s new president tours Southwest state, its police attack local radio, beat and detain journalists

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June 1, 2022

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Police officers seen in a video recording during a raid on Radio Barawe on Wednesday 1 June 2022. | PHOTO/SJS Private.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 01 June 2022 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) and the Somali Media Association (SOMA) strongly condemn the violent attack by the Southwest state police on Radio Barawe, a local minority community rights radio in Barawe on Wednesday night.

The attack comes amid president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s first visit to Southwest state following his election victory on 15 May.

Around 6:15pm local time on Wednesday, five armed police officers raided Radio Barawe and violently detained journalist Osman Aweys Bahar, who also covers for Universal TV, and radio founder Fuad Shoble. Both were initially forced to walk to the beach on gun point, however, after resistance they were transferred to the police station where they were held. Uniformed officers were seen inside the radio premise with at least one officer pointing his gun at journalist Osman Bahar and threatening to shoot, according a video recording obtained by SJS and SOMA. According to colleagues, journalist Bahar sustained hand injury resulting from police beating.

The raid and the detention follows an order of arrest issued by Lower Shabelle court on Wednesday over journalist Bahar’s coverage about the growing rift within Barawe district council and the district commissioner. Earlier, journalist Bahar told SJS and SOMA that the district commissioner, Liban Abukar Bafo and police commissioner, Abduqadir Adan Mohamed had threatened to detain him.

Radio Barawe journalist, Osman Aweys Bahar. | PHOTO/SJS/FILE.

SJS and SOMA condemn the violent attack on Radio Barawe and the detention of its staff. We call for immediate action against the police officers who conducted this raid. We also demand the freedom of journalist Osman Aweys Bahar and radio founder Fuad Shoble. Police should also return equipment taken from the radio.

“We condemn this violent attack by Southwest state police officers against Radio Barawe and the detention Osman Aweys Bahar and radio founder Fuad Shoble,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary-General of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said “We demand for the immediate and unconditional freedom of the two colleagues detained. Police officers should not act above the law. They should be held accountable for their violent actions.”

“We are very sad that the attack on Radio Barawe and the detention of its two staff members took place when Somali president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is paying his first visit to this federal member state. We condemn the police violent raid and we demand justice. They should be freed immediately,” Mohamed Osman Makaran, the Secretary-General of the Somali Media Association (SOMA) said.

In the past two years, Southwest police raided and shut Radio Barawe twice and even banned the radio’s unique local Baravanese (Chimwiini) dialect programming under what seemed to be a politically motivated order from the South West State officials. Despite Radio Barawe resumed its broadcasting days later, journalists and editors reported that authorities continued to monitor them in an attempt to pressure the radio staff.

On the conclusion of journalists training, UK Ambassador and SJS Secretary-General award certificates to participants

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May 26, 2022

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Journalists pose for a group photo alongside British Ambassador, Kate Foster; SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin and Banadir Police Deputy Commander, Col. Said Baryare on Tuesday 24 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 26 May 2022 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) concluded a two-day journalists training on security, safety and promotion of ethical journalism in Mogadishu supported by the British Embassy in Mogadishu on Tuesday.

Thirty journalists from across Somalia’s regional states as well those selected from media institutions in the capital had benefitted from the training which took place from 23 – 24 May. Among the topics covered the training were: Safety and security for journalists, the ethical code for journalism and responsible way of reporting during disasters, digital safety, risk assessment and assignment planning for field reporters as well as digital storytelling: Techniques and tools for successful storytelling.

During the two-day training, officers from the Somali Police Force, representatives from Somali National Army joined journalists for an interactive session about the safety and security of journalists. Police and journalists also discussed on the protection of journalists and provision of access to journalists during crisis.

Police Captain Nuradin Mohamed Hussein (centre) speaks during the discussion between journalists and the police at training session on Monday 23 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

The Deputy Police Commissioner for Banadir Region, Col. Said Baryare underlined the importance of a free press in Somalia, and also condemned acts of violence against journalists in the country. He called on journalists and media associations to report any violation of their rights even if it is committed by senior police officials.

“We are really glad to be here with you and join your conversation. I see you had criticised us. Relations between police and the media has been always very bad. Sometimes we are scared from the media. We want to change that and we are ready for that,” Col. Baryare said “A responsible and independent media is what flourishes democracy in our country.”

Banadir Police Deputy Commander, Col. Said Baryare speaks at the conclusion of journalists training in Mogadishu on Tuesday 24 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

On the wrap up of the training activities, British Ambassador, Kate Foster and the Secretary-General of SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin were accompanied by the Deputy Police Commissioner for Banadir Region, Col. Said Baryare to award certificates to the participants as well as winners of the climate change reporting award.

“We are extremely grateful to the British Embassy in Mogadishu for the timely support. I thank Ambassador Kate Foster and her team for giving us the funds to train 30 journalists from all across Somalia: Mogadishu, Puntland, Jubbaland, South West State, Galmudug and Hirshabelle,” the Secretary-General of SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin said “I also thank police officers who joined us for their time. I call commander Said Baryare and his team to protect journalists and carry out investigations into the killings of journalists in Somalia.”

SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin speaks at the conclusion of journalists training in Mogadishu on Tuesday 24 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS. — SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin speaks *at the conclusion of journalists training in Mogadishu on Tuesday 24 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.*

Ambassador Foster emphasized that a more stable Somalia requires accountability and freedom of expression at its heart as she commended all on the courage and determination of the Somali journalists to carry out their work in the midst of many challenges.

“I’m delighted to host this reception today, bringing together everyone that took part in UK supported media training in the past year. We’ve been deeply concerned by the harassment and attacks that have targeted journalists here,” Ambassador Foster said. “As I’ve talked to many of you over the past 18 months, you’ve told me how vital it is to raise mutual awareness between security personnel and journalists of each other’s role and how to work together. We listened to you, and I’m delighted that we are joined today by journalists and security colleagues from the recent training, in particular I’d like to welcome Banadir Deputy Police Commander Colonel Said Ali Mohamed.”

British Ambassador to Somalia, Kate Foster delivers a speech at the conclusion of journalists training in Mogadishu on Tuesday 24 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

Ambassador Foster also thanked the Somali Journalists Syndicate and its members as well as the media trainer Mohamud Ali for facilitating both sets of training (the safety training and the climate change reporting).

With the conclusion of elections and inauguration of the new President, SJS notes the new opportunity that has emerged to look forward, and to improve press freedom in Somalia. British Embassy in collaboration with the members of the international partners and the Somali civil society must push for a more regular dialogue between the Somali Federal Government and the media including to pushing for amendments to the 2020 Media Law.

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SJS and SOMA strongly condemn travesty trial and jail sentence on journalists in Somaliland

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May 23, 2022

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Mohamed Abdi Ilig and Abdijabar Mohamed Hussein — MM Somali TV director, Mohamed Abdi Ilig and Horn Cable TV reporter, Abdijabar Mohamed Hussein sentenced to one year and four months in jail by Hargeisa-based court on Monday, 23 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 23 May, 2022 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) and the Somali Media Association (SOMA) strongly condemn the travesty of trial and the one year and four months jail sentence against three local journalists who were held in detention in Hargeisa since 13 April for covering the Hargeisa prison shooting incident.

On Monday, the Marodi Jeh Regional Court has sentenced MM Somali TV director, Mohamed Abdi Ilig and Horn Cable TV reporter, Abdijabar Mohamed Hussein with one year and four months in prison for what the judges described as “publication of false news”. The court acquitted journalist Abdirahman Ali Khalif of Gobonimo TV.

According to the lawyers and journalists, the Monday hearing took place in hastened proceedings without the knowledge of the defence lawyers and family members of the defendants. Lawyers told SJS and SOMA that the judges were not independent from police intervention and as a result the judges were not able to pressure evidences for the charges brought by the state prosecutor against the journalists.

“We have been closely following the detention and the trumped up charges against the three journalists: Mohamed Abdi Ilig, Abdijabar Mohamed Hussein and Abdirahman Ali Khalif who remained in detention since 13 April. Authorities first invented false accusations against the three journalists but later resorted to use publication of false news with intent to cause fear and send a chilling signal to journalists community,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary-General of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said. “We condemn the jail sentence against Mohamed Abdi Ilig and Abdijabar Mohamed Hussein today. We call for the Marodi Jeh Regional Court to drop this politically motivated sentence and immediately release our two colleagues.”

“We strongly condemn this travesty trial and the jail sentence against our colleagues in Somaliland today. This is another dark spot on Somaliland democracy. Journalists should not be intimidated and threatened through a sham trial,” Mohamed Osman Makaran, the Secretary-General of Somali Media Association (SOMA) said. “We call for the immediate and unconditional freedom of Mohamed Abdi Ilig and Abdijabar Mohamed Hussein.”

Separately, the Marodi Jeh Regional Court of Appeal on Monday handed two years in jail and a fine of three million Shilling (USD 372) on journalist and social activist, Abdimalik Muse Coldon who was imprisoned on 19 August 2021. prison and fined him.

SJS secretary-general addresses Exile Media Forum in Hamburg, Germany

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May 18, 2022

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SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin (centre) speaks during a panel discussion during Exile Media Forum in Hamburg, Germany on 16 May, 2022. | PHOTO/COURTESY.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 18 May, 2022 – The Exile Media Forum, which is the largest specialist conference on exile journalism, has been held in Hamburg, Germany from 16 – 17 May 2022.

The Secretary-General of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, also a co-author of the book “Hounded: African Journalists in Exile” has addressed the conference this year with a focus on the security of African journalists in exile, the current challenges facing media freedom as well as initiatives and programs to support exiled journalists.

Other topics of the conference are the development of press and media freedom in Europe, digital security and dealing with spy software. A look beyond the borders of Europe, the conference also hosted a special session on the situation of journalists in exile on the African continent.

SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin speaks during a panel discussion during Exile Media Forum in Hamburg, Germany on 16 May, 2022. | PHOTO/COURTESY.

“Exiled journalists – particularly those from Africa- are currently facing huge challenges in the countries where they sought protection. They fled death but many of them continue to experience even worse conditions in the countries they fled to. The lack of local initiatives to support and equip these journalists inside Africa and the lack of commitment by many international organisations have added to the pressure,” Mr. Mumin said.

“Today we have seen the war in Ukraine and the attacks against journalists covering this war have taken the centre of almost every discussion. But we must not forget the worsening conditions of journalists in Africa. I went into exile in 2015 and I can feel the pain of exiled journalists when they can not get the support networks they require,” SJS Secretary-General added. “Exiled journalists need a place to call home and feel safe. They need to have employment opportunities and psychosocial support.”

On Tuesday, SJS Secretary-General attended the Young Exile Media Forum where exiled young media workers in several European countries have gathered to discuss challenges they faces in particular. Mr. Mumin called for media institutions in Europe to allow to have diverse voices by offering employment opportunities for the exiled journalists in Europe.

The conference was organised by Körber Foundation. Representatives from the German Foreign Office, the City of Hamburg, Konrad Adenauer Foundation, journalists and leaders of press freedom organisations have attended the conference.

SJS hails Speaker of Parliament’s assurance to give access to journalists covering presidential election

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May 13, 2022

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Journalists meet Speaker of Parliament's Lower House, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur (Madobe) on Friday 13 May, 2022. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 13 May, 2022 – Today, Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) joined journalists and media directors meeting with the Speaker of the Somali Parliament’s Lower House, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur (Madobe) in Mogadishu raising concern about the recent restrictions against journalists covering presidential election.

During the meeting SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin and members of the independent media directors voiced their concern on the ongoing blockage imposed on the independent journalists reporting on the presidential election at the Parliament. Journalists also pointed that a local commercial company alluding with parliament officials has been attempting to use the restrictions on journalists as an advantage to obtain exclusive possession of footage and photos from the election venue which violates the fundamental human rights of accessing public information.

Speaker Sheikh Adan Madobe made assurances that he will immediately lift the restrictions imposed on journalists and that independent media will be provided access to the Parliament on Sunday 15 May when lawmakers will be voting for the election of the president.

SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin (left) and Speaker of Somali Parliament's Lower House pose for a photo after a meeting in Mogadishu on Friday, 13 May 2022. | PHOTO/Official. — SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin (left) and Speaker of Somali Parliament’s Lower House pose for a photo after a meeting in Mogadishu on Friday, 13 May 2022. | PHOTO/Official.

“During our meeting today with Speaker Sheikh Adan Madobe, we raised concern regarding the restrictions against journalists covering Somali presidential election. He listened to our concerns and promised to immediately provide access to all journalists. We look forward to the implementation of the Speaker’s promise,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary-General of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said “We call Speaker Sheikh Adan Madobe to also restore all media access to the Parliament in order for journalists to cover parliament proceedings without harassment and threats.”

Somali lawmakers from the two houses of the Federal Parliament will be voting on Sunday 15 May to elect a new president. Journalist covering this election have has a huge professional responsibility to ensure that they act professionally and in accordance with international standards. There is so much at stake in this year’s election in Somalia that some politicians with vested interests will not shy away from bribery and telling lies. But our journalists must be cautious and act independently and professionally.

“I want to urge journalists that they must know when covering an election it is of immense importance to be clear about your role and responsibilities as a journalist. Our role is to help the citizens understand the key issues of the election and inform the public including the lawmakers to make the best possible decisions on whom to vote for and to inform them about the political actors, their visions and their promises including the respect for democratic space and human rights,” SJS Secretary-General, Mr. Mumin added.

Journalists’ unions, media organisations condemn latest violations against media freedom and journalists in Somalia, including the restrictions, threats and censorship

SJS trains 25 journalists in Somalia’s Galmudug on human rights reporting

SJS oo tababarka habka tebinta wararka xuquuqda aadahan u qabatay warfidiyeenka magaalada Cadaado ee Galmudug

WAR MURTIYEED WADAJIR AH OO AY SOO SAAREEN URURRADA SAXAFIYIINTA IYO WARBAAHINTA SOOMAALIYEED EE MADAXA-BANNAAN

Joint Statement by the Somali Independent Journalists Unions and Media Houses on the State of F.O.E and Human Rights in Somalia

As Somalia’s new president tours Southwest state, its police attack local radio, beat and detain journalists

On the conclusion of journalists training, UK Ambassador and SJS Secretary-General award certificates to participants

SJS and SOMA strongly condemn travesty trial and jail sentence on journalists in Somaliland

SJS secretary-general addresses Exile Media Forum in Hamburg, Germany

SJS hails Speaker of Parliament’s assurance to give access to journalists covering presidential election

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