AG declares court action against critical media as restrictions on journalists rise ahead of Somalia elections

By

-

December 12, 2020

Jubbaland-security-forces-detain-journalist-in-Kismayo-on-6-December-2020 — Jubbaland security forces seen escorting Eryal TV reporter, Abdullahi Hussein Kilas to the police station in Kismayo after they detained him on 6 December 2020. | PHOTO/SJS/Private.

MOGADISHU, Somalia, 12 December 2020 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) strongly condemns the new threats against the independent media and journalists in Somalia, including the warning of court actions by the Office of Attorney General ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

On 10 December 2020, during a press conference in Mogadishu, the Somali Federal Government Attorney General (AG), Mr. Suleiman Mohamed Mohamud issued a warning to the independent media over a claim that they were “disseminating rumors, interviews and misleading headlines that violate the Media Law and the Media Ethics”. The AG further declared that his office “was investigating cases involving media houses and journalists and that he will present to relevant courts once the ongoing investigations are complete”. It is not yet clear which media houses and journalists the AG was referring.

On 6 December, Jubbaland security forces briefly arrested Eryal TV reporter and SJS member, Abdullahi Hussein Kilas in Kismayo over a news report covering a protest by a group of displaced women who allegedly complained about misappropriation of cash-based assistance to the displaced families in Kismayo. Journalist Kilas was released after he was ordered to remove the story of the protest from his social media accounts and was not charged.

On 1 December, Jubbaland security officials blocked and threatened 11 journalists from the local media who were planning to cover an event where Jubbaland State president, Ahmed Mohamed Islan (Madobe) was addressing parliamentarians and government supporters in Kismayo. Journalists told SJS that a presidential security officer threatened to shoot if journalists approach to the event hall resulting the 11 reporters to leave.

On 27 November, Jubbaland security officials in Kismayo obstructed a group of local journalists who were trying to access the Kismayo Airport to cover the speech of Jubbaland State president, Ahmed Mohamed Islan (Madobe) upon his arrival from abroad. The journalists, who spoke to SJS, said they had left the airport without covering Madobe’s speech but were later instructed to broadcast an edited video clip of the leader’s speech.

On 27 November, Somali police officers in Mogadishu denied access to a dozen of journalists from the local media and those covering for international news agencies after a deadly blast hit an ice cream parlour on the Airport Road in Mogadishu. The journalists told SJS that armed police officers at the scene denied them photographing the site and those who sneaked in were also removed.

On 21 November, Somaliland police in Las Anod town detained Universal TV reporter, Khadar Rigah and held him in detention for a week over a report alleging deteriorating security in Las Anod which he published on Facebook. The journalist was freed on 28 November, after the Sool Regional Court ordered his release.

“Somali Government and its regional Member States should respect the freedom of the press during the forthcoming elections and authorities should discourage all kinds of censorship and threats including the latest threats from Federal Government’s Attorney General,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary General of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said, “Threatening media and journalists through legal bullying ahead of the national elections is completely unacceptable.”

Kulan sanadeedka 2aad ee Guddiga Fulinta SJS oo Muqdisho lagu soo gaba-gabeeyay

By

Admin

-

December 7, 2020

0

Xubnaha Guddiga Fulinta SJS oo kulan sannadeedkii 2aad ku yeeshay Muqdisho. | PHOTO/SJS.

MUQDISHO, Soomaaliya, 07 Disembar 2020 – Xubnaha Guddiga Fulinta ee Ururka Suxufiyiinta Soomaaliyeed (SJS) ayaa kulan sanadeedkoodii labaad kusoo gaba-gabeeyay magaalada Muqdisho maalinnimadii Axaddii 6 Disembar 2020.

Kulanka ayaa looga hadlay qorshe sannadeedka SJS, xisaabxirka miisaaniyadda ururka, caqabadaha iyo guulaha ururka iyo dib u eegis lagu sameeyay sidoo kale Xeerka Hab-dhaqanka warfidiyeenka. Waxaana sidoo kale loogu mahadceliyay xubnaha ururka iyo taageerayaasha kale ee tabarucaadka siinayay ururka SJS tan iyo markii la aas-aasay.

Xoghayaha Guud ee SJS, Cabdalle Axmed Mumin ayaa ka hadlay shaqooyinkii ururka u qabsoomay sannadka 2020 oo ahaa sannad adag oo ay ka buuxeen caqabado, hase yeeshee sidoo kale uu ururku sameeyay horumar muuqda. Sannadka 2020 waxay SJS xubin ka noqotay labo dalladood oo muhiim ah oo kala ah: Golaha Suxufiyiinta Afrika (CAJ) iyo Midowga caalamiga ee ururrada bulshada rayidka (CIVICUS).

“Sannadka 2020 wuxuu ahaa mid adag. Ugu horreyn xannuunka Covid-19 ayaa xannibay hawlihii aan fileynay inaanu qabanno, tiiyoo ay dheer tahay caqabadaha amni ee aan wajaheynay,” ayuu yiri Xoghaye Mumin oo intaa ku daray inay kordheen beegsiga lagu hayo suxufiyiinta. Wuxuuna cadeeyay inaysan SJS marnaba u hakan hanjabaadaha iyo caga-jugleynta xitaa iyadoo ay yarad tas-hiilaadka la heli karay.

“Sannadkan gudihiisa SJS waxay taageertay afar weriye oo la maxkamadeeyay, kuwaasoo dadaalkeenna iyo kaalmadasaaxiibadeennaa wgeed, aan ku guuleysannay xorriyadooda,” ayuu sii raaciyey Xoghaye Mumin.

Dhankiisa, Guddoomiyaha SJS, Maxamed Ibraahim ayaa xusay sida ay SJS ugu guuleysatay inay sare u qaado hawl-galkeeda iyadoo ay jiraan caqabado badan oo ka hor-imaanayey.

“Markaad fiiriso horumarka uu sameeyay ururka iyo cadaadisyada aan ku dhex shaqeyneynay, waxaa la moodaa in SJS ay jirtay boqollaal sano, sababtuna waa kooxda firfircoon iyo khibradda aan u leenahay u leenahay shaqada, iyo in SJS markasta diyaar u tahay u adeegista iyo metelaadda xubnaha ururka iyo suxufiyiinta guud ahaan,”ayuu sii raaciyay Guddoomiyaha SJS, Maxamed Ibraahim

Arrimaha kale ee kulan sannadeedka labaad ee Guddiga Fulinta SJS looga hadlay waxaa ka mid ahaa: badqabka iyo amniga suxufiyiinta xilliga doorashada iyo ol’olaha SJS hormuudka ka tahay ee lagu diidan yahay Xeerka Warbaahinta oo horey loo caddeeyay inuusan kaliya keeneyn faaf-reeb ee xitaa uu halis ku yahay amniga weriyayaasha Soomaaliyeed. SJS waxay sii wadeysaa ol’olahaasi looga hortagayo inuu dhaqangalo Xeerkan halista ku ah suxufiyiinta.

Kulanka oo lasoo gaba-gabeeyay goordambe oo Axaddii ahayd ayaa loogu codeeyay saddex masuul oo ka mid noqon doona xubnaha maamulka SJS: Hinda Daahir Jaamac, oo ah weriye telefishan, ahna gabar u dhaq-dhaqaaqda xuquuqda suxufiyiinta gabdhaha ayaa noqoneysa Xoghayaha SJS ee Arrimaha Xuquuqda Haweenka, halka Hanad Cali Guuleed, oo ah weriye khibrad dheer leh haddana ah tifaftiraha wararka ee Warbaahinta Goobjoog, ayaa noqonaya Xoghayaha Tababarrada SJS. Siciid Yuusuf Warsame, oo ah weriye-sawirqaade madax-bannaan oo la shaqeeya Wakaaladda Wararka Yurub (EPA) ayaa loo magacaabay Xiriiriyaha SJS ee Gobolka Banaadir.

Ugu dambeyntii, kulanka ayaa lagu xusuustay labo weriye (Cabdiwali Cali Xasan iyo Siciid Yuusuf Cali) oo sannadkan 2020 lagu dilay dalka.

SJS EXCOM meeting successfully concludes in Mogadishu

By

Admin

-

December 7, 2020

0

SJS Executive Committee pose for a photogroup session after end of their bi-annual meeting in Mogadishu — SJS Executive Committee Members pose for a photogroup session after end of their bi-annual meeting in Mogadishu, Sunday 6 December, 2020. |Photo/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia, 07 December 2020 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) concludes its bi-annual Executive Committee (EXCom) Meeting at Armaan Halls in Mogadishu on Sunday 6 December 2020, with endorsement of the 2021 Strategic Plan, approving of the 2021 Budget, and reviewing the journalists’ Code of Conduct.

The union’s EXCom deliberations also endorsed the Audit Report of the 2020 Budget Review inline with the organization’s Constitution and acknowledged the contributions of the union members and other supporters who stood with SJS since its inception.

SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin described the 2020 as a very critical year full of many challenges but also some achievements for the Somali Journalists Syndicate. SJS became a member of two important bodies: the Congress of African Journalists (CAJ) and the international civil society coalition (CIVICUS).

“This has been a very critical year for us. First of all the Covid-19 pandemic had blocked our activities in addition to the many security challenges we had faced,” Secretary General, Mr Mumin added, “While the threats against the journalists increased, we were always under constant pressure, our officials threatened, intimidated, but we were going to stop. We were able to respond to every single case timely and safely despite with limited resources available.”

“This year alone SJS intervened four cases of prosecuted journalists whom we have won securing their freedom thanks to the support and solidarity from our local and international partners,” Mr. Mumin said.

On his side, SJS President, Mohamed Ibrahim has noted that despite SJS being a small organization, in the past one year it has endured numerous pressures and even scaled up its scope of work and geographic coverage.

“When you look at the achievements we made and the pressures we were working under, it is like that SJS is hundreds of years old,” SJS President, Mohamed Ibrahim adds, “This is because we have a very dynamic and experienced team willing to serve for and represent the interest of our members and the entire Somali journalists.”

Among issues discussed were: the safety of the journalists during the 2020/2021 election as well as the draconian Media Law, which not only restricts media freedom and the safe conduct of journalism in the country but also threatens journalists for reporting critically. SJS will remain on the forefront of the campaigns seeking to repeal this repressive law.

The meeting, which was wrapped up late on Sunday, unanimously voted for Mr. Hanad Ali Guled as the new Secretary of Training and Education.

Finally, SJS EXCom meeting paid tribute to two slain colleagues (Mr. Abdiwali Ali Hassan and Mr. Said Yusuf Ali) who were killed this year.

State and opposition should respect independent election coverage in Somalia, stop threats against journalists

By

Admin

-

November 25, 2020

0

Somali journalists gather to cover a press conference during the trial of journalist Abdiaziz Gurbiye at Banadir Regional Court on 7 July, 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 25 November 2020 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) expresses its concern about the increasing intimidation, censorship and threats against independent journalists and media in Somalia ahead of the country’s general elections.

We are particularly concerned by the attempts by the Federal Ministry of Information to enforce the draconian Media Law and to take other repressive measures including recent remarks by certain officials within the Ministry of Information.

“As Somalia heads to a heavily disputed election, we have witnessed how state officials, who are blindly trying to enforce the media law, are increasingly scrutinizing media reporting and have even publicly declared that they will not allow any critical voices. We call for this to stop,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the secretary general of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said.

In the past few months, state security forces have responded to critical press coverage with harassment, arbitrary arrests, and threats mainly by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).

More than ever, an independent media is crucial for Somalia and its people to hold free and fair elections and therefore SJS reminds all political parties to respect free expression and media rights as enshrined in the Provisional Somali Constitution and international human rights law.

“We call for authorities to put their intent to implement the repressive media law on hold. Media and journalists should be allowed to independently report all views from all parties including the information regarding mismanagement of election, fraud and abuses against women candidates without fear of reprisals,” Mr. Mumin adds.

International human rights barrister Michael Polak earlier this year submitted communications to the United Nations Independent Expert on the Situation of Human Rights in Somalia, the Human Rights Council, and the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression on behalf of the SJS in regards to the constant attacks and repression faced by journalists in Somalia as we as the potential implementation of the Media Law.

He states “the Media Law has been drafted in such a way so as to establish complete government control over all aspects of the press in Somalia and this is a grave danger to freedom of expression. Somalia’s international partners must reiterate the importance of a free press and the government should work with international experts to ensure that any regulation complies with international best practice and Somalia’s obligations under international law and the Somalian Constitution.”

SJS calls for members of the international community and the local and international civil society to stand in solidarity with free press and protection of journalists in Somalia before, during and after the election. Those responsible or known to have committed abuses against journalists should not be allowed to get away with it.

Kahor doorashooyinka, waa muhiim badbaadinta xorriyadda warbaahinta Soomaaliya

By

Admin

-

November 17, 2020

0

Shir jaraa'id oo wadajir ah ayey qabteen masuuliyiinta ururrada SJS, SOMA iyo warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan. | PHOTO/SJS.

MUQDISHO, Soomaaliya, 17 November 2020 – Ururka Suxufiyiinta Soomaaliyeed (SJS), Daladda Warbaahinta Madaxa-Bannaan (SOMA), ururka wariyaasha baahiyaha gaarka qaba,Dallada Warfidiyeenka Shabeellaha Hoose, agaasimayaasha in ka badan 30 xarun warbaahinta oo madax-bannaan ayaa maanta kulan wadajir ah oo looga tashanayey xorriyadda warbaahinta, xeerka warbaahinta iyo badqabka weriyayaasha xilliga doorashoyinka isugu yimid magaalada Muqdisho.

Madaxda ururrada warfidiyeenka, kuwa warbaahinta iyo agaasimayaasha warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan ayaa si wadajir ah walaac uga muujiyay bayaan uu dhowaan soo saaray Wasiirka Warfaafinta Soomaaliya Cisman Abokor Dubbe u diray xubnaha beesha caalamka isagoo ku weydiistay taageero ku aadan dhaqan-gelinta Xeerka Warbaahinta ee caburinta iyo faafreeb ku soo rogaya warbaahinta iyo weriyayaasha Soomaaliya. Waxay cambaareeyeen isku dayada masuuliyiin ka tirsan Wasaaradda Warfaafinta ee lagu doonayo in lagu wiiqo shaqada saxaafadda madaxa-bannaan xilliga doorashooyinka.

Cabdalle Axmed Mumin, Xoghayaha Guud ee SJS ayaa caddeeyay in xorriyadda hadalka iyo tan saxaafadda ee dalka ay hadda mareyso meel adag, ayna weriyeyaashu wajahayaan faafreeb ku saleysan handadaad. Mr. Mumin ayaa sheegay in weerarkii ciidamada amniga ku qaadeen weriye Cabdullaahi Kulmiye Caddow oo ka tirsan Radio Kulmiye uu ahaa weerar qorsheysan oo ka dhan ah warfiyeennada Soomaaliyeed oo dhan.

“Nasiib darro, halkii aan ka fileynay inay wax isbeddellaan, Dowlada Soomaaliya iyo saraakiisheeda amniga waxay sii wadaan beegsiga warfidiyeenka madaxa-bannaan si maalinle ah. Ma garanayo sida warbaahintu u awoodi doonto warar xaqiiq ah oo dhex-dhexaad ah ay dadweynaha ugu gudbin karaan haddii aysan weriyayaashu helin badbaado,” ayuu yiri Mr. Mumin.

Mar uu ka hadlay qoraalka uu Wasiirka Warfaafintu u qeybiyay hay’adaha taageera saxaafadda iyo safaaradaha beesha caalamka qaarkood, wuxuu Mr. Mumin ku baaqay in Wasaaradda Warfaafintu joojiso dhaqangelinta Xeerka Warbaahinta ee caburinta ku ah warbaahinta xilligan doorashada lagu jiro.

“Waxaan ku baaqeynaa in wadatashi iyo dib u eegis dhameystiran oo daacad ah lagu sameeyo Xeerka Warbaahinta. Anagu waxaan diyaar u nahay inaan talo ku biirino sidii Xeerkan looga saari lahaa qodobada halista ku ah warbaahinta,” ayuu sii raaciyay Mr. Mumin.

Agaasimaha SOM News TV, Xasan Kaahiye oo ka hadlay kulanka wadatashiga saxaafadda. Talaado 17 November, 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

Maxamed Cabduwahaab Cabdullaahi, Xoghayaha Guud ee (SOMA) ayaa tilmaamay muhimadda midnimada iyo is-garab taagga ee warbaahinta Soomaaliyeed billaabeen xilligan xasaasiga ah.

“Amniga saxafiyiinta ayaa ah midka ugu muhimsan waqtigan adag ee dalku ku jiro. Xeerka Warbaahinta waa halista ugu weyn ee aan maanta wajaheyno. Waxaan dalbaneynaa in la joojiyo oo laga furo dib u eegis,” ayuu sii raaciyay Maxamed Cabduwahaab “Midnimo ayaan ku wajaheynaa sidii aan u difaaci lahayn xuquuqdeena.”

Mowliid Maxamed Urur, Agaasimaha Kalsan TV, oo ah telefishan madax-bannaan oo labo weriye laga dilay afartii sano ee u dambeysay, ayaa muujiyay walaac weyn oo uu ka qabo amniga iyo badqabka wariyaasha iyadoo aysan Dowladda rabin inay difaacdo saxaafadda, balse dhanka kale dooneysa inay xeerar qalafsan u adeegsato caburinta wartebinta warbaahinta.

“Ma jiri doonto warbaahin madax-bannaan iyo weriyayaal xor ah haddii Xeerka Warbaahinta sidiisa lagu dhaqangeliyo,” ayuu sii raaciyay.

Cabdifataax Xasan Axmed, Guddoomiyaha Ururka Weriyayaasha Baahiyaha Gaarka Qaba ayaa muujiyay sida uu ugu niyad-jabay tacadiyada aan la isu xisaabin ee lagu hayo warfidiyeenka guud ahaan.

“Dhaqanka laaluushka iyo hanjabaadaha ee ka dhanka ah saxaafadda ayaa sii socda. Waxaan soo jedinaynaa in la joojiyo si deg deg ah,” ayuu yiri Abdifatah.

Burhan Diini Faarax, agaasimaha Radio Kulmiye ayaa sheegay in faafreebka lagu hayo warbaahinta uu soo batay maadaama waqtiga doorashada loo sii dhowaaday, taasina ay culeys amni oo run ah ay saartayweriyayaasha. Wuxuuna ku taliyey in xarumaha warbaahinta iyo ururrada ay si dhow uga wada-shaqeeyaan difaacidda xorriyada hadalka.

Xasan Maxamuud, agaasimaha Goobjoog Media ayaa ku taliyey in warbaahinta ay adkeysi muujiyaan iyadoo dhanka kalena lasii wadayo halganka loogu jiro difaaca xorriyadda saxaafadda.

Xasan Kaahiye, agaasimaha SOM News TV ayaa isaguna caddeeyay baahida loo qabo saxaafad runta abbaarta xilligan oo kale, kana shaqeysa danta dadweynaha.

“Warbaahinta dadweynaha ee maanta ka jirta Soomaaliya waa warbaahinta gaarka ah. Caburinta ka dhanka ah warbaahinta gaarka ah waxay halis ku tahay baahida dadweynaha ay u qabaan inay helaan warar dhex-dhexaad ah oo xaqiiqada ku saleysan,” ayuu yiri Mr. Kaahiye.

Ka qeybgalayaasha ayaa kulankan ku soo gaba-gabeeyay shir jaraa’id oo lagu shaaciyay qodobada soo socda:

Dowladda Federaalka Soomaaliya iyo Maamul Gobolleedyada waa inay joojiyaan beegsiga ay ku hayaan warfidiyeenka oo ay ka mid tahay xarigga, isla markaana loo ogolaado warbaahinta inay helaan helista xogta muhiimka u ah dadweynaha.

Dowladda Soomaaliya waa inay furtaa dib u eegis Xeerka Warbaahinta, isla markaana la hakiyo dhaqan-gelinta qodobada caqabadda ku ah xorriyadda warbaahinta iyo tan weriyayaasha eek u jira Xeerkan waqtiga doorashooyinka si saxaafadda shaqadeeda u gudato.

Waa in hay’adaha dowladda iyo madaxda sare qaadaan tallaabooyin deg deg ah oo lagu dhowrayo badqabka warfidiyeenka, digniinna loogu dirayo kuwa dhibaateeynaya weriyayaasha. Waana in baaritaan lagu sameeyo dhammaan weerarada lagu qaaday weriyayaasha oo ay ku jiraan dilalka.

Beesha caalamka waa inay taageerto badbaadinta xorriyadda hadalka, ayna ku cadaadiso Dowladda Soomaaliya iyo hay’adeheeda amniga inay ka fogaadaan caburinta warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan.

Beesha caalamka waa inaysan taageerin tallaabooyinka lagu dhibaateynayo xorriyadda hadalka oo ay ku jirto tallaabooyinka uu dhowaan billaabay Wasiirka Warfaafinta ee ku saleysan caburinta, handadaadda iyo faafreebka.

Beesha caalamka waa inay taageerto kor u qaadista xorriyadda hadalka iyo amniga weriyayaasha ka hor iyo kaddib waqtiga doorashooyinka.

Waa in dhammaan qeybaha siyaasadda iyo bulshada u aragto shaqada warbaahinta madaxa-bannaan mid muhiim u ah hannaanka dowlad dhisidda dal sida Soomaaliya oo kale ah oo kasoo kabanaya colaad dheeraatay.

Ahead of elections, safeguarding press freedom in Somalia should be prioritised

By

Admin

-

November 17, 2020

0

Journalists gather as leaders of SJS, SOMA and media directors stand for a press conference in Mogadishu on Tuesday, 17 November, 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 17 November 2020 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), Somali Media Association (SOMA), Disabled Journalists Association, representatives from Lower Shabelle Journalists Organisation, directors and editors from over 30 independent media houses today gathered in Mogadishu for a consultative conference raising concerns on the draconian Somali Media Law, the safety of the working journalists and denounced the rise of threats against the press.

Leaders of journalists associations and independent media organisations have expressed their concern over a recent statement by the Somali Minister of Information, Mr. Osman Abokor Dubbe to the members of the international community appealing for support for the implementation of the oppressive Media Law. They condemned the efforts by officials of the state security agencies and the Ministry of Information to undermine the work of the independent media during the electoral season.

Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, Secretary General of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) stated that freedom of expression and that of the press are at a critical juncture as journalists continuously face growing level censorship and other threats mainly by the state security agencies. Mr. Mumin noted the recent raid and detention of Radio Kulmiye journalist Abdullahi Kulmiye Addow was a blatant attack against the freedom of the press.

“Unfortunately, rather than improving, the situation is now going to worse. State security agencies and government officials continue to target independent journalists on a daily basis. I am concerned how the media will be able to provide accurate and impartial information to the public if journalists are not safe,” Mr. Mumin said.

Mr. Mumin called for the Ministry of Information to impose moratorium on the implementation of the certain provisions within the Media Law that threaten the media freedom and should not be used during the election.

“We call for a comprehensive consultation and an honest inclusive review into the Media Law. We are ready to contribute our advice so that Somalia can have media law that is inline with the Somali Constitution and the international human rights standards,” added Mr. Mumin.

Mohamed Abduwahab Abdullahi, Secretary General of the Somali Media Association (SOMA) hailed the importance of the unity and solidarity among the media houses and the journalist associations that has begun at this critical time.

“The safety of journalists is a paramount importance at this difficult time ahead of the elections. The draconian Media Law is the biggest threat we face today. We call for its amendment and it should not be used during the election period in order to safeguard the freedom of the media and independent coverage,” Mr. Abdullahi said.

“Even as we are continuously harassed and threatened, we will never rest from fighting for our constitutional rights,” adds Mr. Abdullahi.

Director of Som News TV, Hassan Kahiye speaks during journalists consultative conference in Mogadishu on Tuesday, 17 November, 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

Mowlid Mohamed Urur, Director of Kalsan TV, an independent television station that has lost two journalists in the past four years, has expressed grave concern about the safety and security of journalists amid a prolonged culture of impunity.

“The other threat is that there will be no independent media and free journalists if the Media Law is implemented as the way it is,” he added.

Abdifatah Hassan Ahmed, chairman of the Disability Journalists Association, expressed his frustration with the countless abuses against journalists in general.

“The practice of bribery and threats against the media continues. We are fed up by the level of intimidation and suppression. We call for this to stop,” Abdifatah said.

Burhan Diini Farah, the Director of Radio Kulmiye, described how the censorship against the media had increased ahead of the election season, putting a real security concern on the journalists.

“A free and fearless journalism is vital for Somalia’s state-building. We would like to remind authorities that we could never be silenced,” said Mr. Farah “At this time, I strongly advocate for close cooperation between our media houses and our unions like SJS and SOMA to defend freedom of expression together.”

Hassan Mohamud, director of Goobjoog Media praised the resilience of Somali media and its journalists.

“We have come from far, but we still need to continue fighting for media freedom and our rights as journalists without fear or favour,” Mr. Mohamud said.

Hassan Kahiye, director of SOM News TV, also highlighted the need for impartial media coverage at this time for the public interest.

“The only reliable media in Somalia today is the independent private media houses. Any attempt to undermine the private media will adversely threaten the public’s need for fair and truthful information. We call for all local and international partners to stand for the safeguarding of the independent media in Somalia,” Mr. Kahiye said.

Participants wrapped up the meeting with a press conference announcing the following:

Federal Government of Somalia and its Member States should stop threats against journalists, including arbitrary arrests, and grant journalists and media access to information particularly before, during and after the elections for the interest of the public.

Somali government should allow the consultative process of review of the Media Law, and while doing that a moratorium should be imposed on the implementation of certain provisions that impede the freedom of the media and journalists during the electoral season.

State security agencies and senior government officials should take immediate steps to ensure the safety of journalists and warn those who threaten or target journalists. Investigations should also be opened for all of cases of attacks against journalists including killings.

The international community should support the protection of the freedom of expression, and pressure the Somali authorities and its security agencies to refrain from targeting the independent media and journalists.

The international community should not support measures that undermine freedom of expression, including the recent repressive measures taken by the Minister of Information meant to censor and intimidate independent media houses.

The international community should support the promotion of freedom of expression and security of journalists before and after the elections.

Everyone in the political and social spheres should regard the work of the independent media as a vital part of the state-building process in Somalia.

SJS & SOMA oo ugu baaqay Somaliland inay ka laabato go’aanka siyaasadeysan ee caddaaladda darrada ee ka dhanka maamulaha Astaan TV

By

Admin

-

November 5, 2020

0

Maamulaha Astaan TV, Cabdimanaan Yuusuf oo lagu xiray Hargeysa 17 Luulyo 2020. | Sawir hore/Baraha Bulshada.

MUQDISHO, Soomaaliya, 5 Nofembar 2020 – Ururka Suxufiyiinta Soomaaliyeed (SJS) iyo Dalladda Warbaahinta Madaxa-bannaan ee Soomaaliyeed (SOMA) waxay si xooggan u cambaareynayaan go’aanka siyaasadedsan ee xaq-darrada ah ee ay Maxkamadda Gobolka Maroodi-Jeex ku ridday Maamulaha Guud ee Astaan TV, Cabdimanaan Yuusuf go’aankaasi oo dhacay Arbacadii 4 Nofembar 2020.

Sida uu sheegay qareenka u doodayey Cabdimanaan oo lagu magacaabo Maxamed Axmed Abokor, waxay Maxkamaddu ku xukuntay Cabdimanaan shan sano oo xarig ah iyo ganaax lacageed oo dhan labo milyan Shillin (oo u dhiganta $250). Maxkamaddu waxay kaloo xayiraad ku rogtay shaqadii Astaan TV ee gudaha Somaliland.

Maxkamaddu ma sheegin waxay u cuskatay xukunkanay ridday Arbacadii.

Cabdimanaan waxay Somaliland xirtay 17 Luulyo 2020, waxaana lagu hayey xabsiga tan iyo markaasi wixii ka dambeeyay isagoo sida la sheegay aan loo oggolaan inuu la kulmo qareenadiisa iyo qoyskiisa.

Tan iyo markii la xiray, Cabdimanaan waxaa dhowr jeer la horgeeyay maxkamad, oo mid ka mid ah oo ku beegneyd 26 July 2020, lagu soo oogay eedeymo kala ah basaasid iyo hawlgelin telefishan aan shati heysan. Hase yeeshee eedeymahaasi looma helin wax caddeyn ah.

Garsooraha Maxkamadda Maroodi-Jeex, Xasan Mataan iyo ku Xigeenka Xeer Ilaaliyaha Somaliland, Farxaan Mire Cismaan kama soo jawaabin markii aan weydiinay faahfaahinta waxa dhab ahaan lagu heley Cabdimanaan ee loo cuskaday xukunka ay Maxkamaddu gaartay Arbacadii.

“Waxaan cambaareynaynaa go’aanka siyaasadeysan ee ka fog caddaaladda ee ay Maxkamadda Gobolka Maroodi-Jeex ku riday maamulaha Astaan TV, Cabdimanaan Yuusuf, kaasoo sida muuqata yimid afar bilood kaddib markii si sharci darro ah loo xiray,” ayuu yiri Xoghayaha Guud ee SJS, Cabdalle Axmed Mumin.

“Waxaan ugu baaqeynaa masuuliyiinta Somaliland inay dhowraan xorriyadda shakhsiga oo ay si deg deg ah ku sii daayaan Cabdimanaan. Waana in sidoo kale xayiraadda laga qaadaa Astaan TV,” ayuu sii raaciyay hadalkiisa Xoghaye Mumin oo sheegay in Dastuurka Somaliland uu si cad u dammaanad qaadayo xorriyadda ra’yiga oo ay ku jirto furashada warbaahinta.

“Go’aanka xaq darrada ah ee ay Maxkamadda Maroodi-Jeex ku ridday Cabdimanaan Yuusuf waxay sharaf dhac ku tahay dimuqraadiyadda Somaliland. Waxaana dalbaneynaa in dhakhso leh loo sii daayo,” sidaasi waxaa yiri Maxamed Cabduwahaab Cabdullaahi, Xoghayaha Guud ee SOMA oo xusuusiyay Somaliland inay ogaato in bulsho dimuqraadi ah aysan jiri karin xorriyadda aragtida la’aanteeda.

Agaasimaha Radio Markabley, Axmed Cumar Saalixi (bidix) iyo tifaftire Yaxye Cabdirisaaq Soofe (midig) oo Isniintii 2 Nofembar lagu xiray magaalada Baardheere ee gobolka Gedo.

Dhinaca kale, SJS iyo SOMA waxay si wadajir ah u cambaareynayaan xarigga muddada kooban ee ciidanka Nabadsugida iyo Sirdoonka Soomaaliyeed (NISA) ay kula keceen agaasimaha Radio Markabley, Axmed Cumar Saalixi iyo tifaftire Yaxye Cabdirisaaq Soofe oo Isniintii 2 Nofembar lagu xiray magaalada Baardheere ee gobolka Gedo. Labada suxufi ayaa la xiray kaddib markii idaacaddooda ay baahisay war la xiriira odayaal beeleed ka cabanayey Madaxweynaha Soomaaliya, Maxamed Cabdullaahi Farmaajo.

Labada weriye ayaa la siidaayey isla maalinkii Isniinta ee 2 Nofembar.

SJS and SOMA call for Hargeisa court to reverse its politically-motivated and unjust verdict against Astaan TV CEO

By

Admin

-

November 5, 2020

0

Abdimanan Yusuf, CEO of Astaan TV jailed in Hargeisa since 17 Jul, 2020. | Photo/Courtesy.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 5 November 2020 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) and Somali Media Association (SOMA) strongly condemn the politically-motivated decision by the Marodi-Jeh Regional Court in Hargeisa against the subscription-based television cable service Astaan TV and its CEO, Abdimanan Yusuf on Wednesday 4 November 2020.

According to Abdimanan’s lawyer, Mohamed Ahmed Abokor, the court sentenced five years in jail and a cash fine of two million Somaliland Shilling ($250) to Abdimanan after a brief court appearance on Wednesday. The court also banned Astaan TV operations in Somaliland.

The court did not specify what type of charges its verdict was based on.

Abdimanan was arrested and has been held in jail since 17 July 2020 by authorities in Hargeisa and had reportedly been unable to meet his lawyers and family members.

Since his arrest, Abdimanan had several court appearances including one on 26 July 2020 in which prosecutors charged him with two articles: espionage and operating illegal media company in Somaliland. The Court, however, did not find proof of evidence for both charges.

Both Marodi-Jeh Regional Court judge Hassan Matan and the deputy Attorney General, Farhan Mire Osman did not respond when asked for clarification of the exact articles of which Abdimanan was convicted on Wednesday.

“We condemn the politically-motivated and unfair decision by the Marodi-Jeh Regional Court against Abdimanan Yusuf, the CEO of Astaan TV, which apparently came four months after his illegal detention in Hargeisa. We call on the Somaliland authorities to protect individual liberty and to immediately release Abdimanan,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the secretary general of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said “Somaliland Constitution explicitly guarantees freedom of expression including the freedom to operate media houses and therefore we call for the Marodi-Jeh Court to reverse its decision to ban Astaan TV.”

“The unjust verdict handed down by the Marodi-Jeg Regional Court to Abdimanan Yusuf is a disgrace to Somaliland’s democracy. We demand his immediate release. Authorities should be aware that a democratic society could never exist without a freedom of expression. “Mohamed Abduwahab, the secretary general of Somali Media Association (SOMA) said.

Director of Radio Markabley, Ahmed Omar Salihi (left) and editor Yahye Abdirisak Sofe (right) were briefly detained in Bardhere town, Gedo region by NISA officers on Monday 2 November, 2020.

Separately, SJS and SOMA jointly condemn the brief detention against the director of the privately-owned Radio Markabley, Ahmed Omar Salihi and its editor, Yahye Abdirisak Sofe by officers from the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) in Bardhere town, Gedo region on Monday 2 November. Their detention followed after the radio covered local clan elders who complained against Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo.

Both were released on the same day without charge.

On IDEI, Somali journalists and their unions call for urgent end of impunity

By

Admin

-

November 3, 2020

0

Journalists gather for the commemoration of IDEI on 2 Npovember 2020 in Mogadishu — Journalists and civil society members gather for the commemoration of IDEI on 2 November 2020 in Mogadishu. | PHOTO/SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 2 November 2020 – In a joint commemoration held in Mogadishu on the International Day to End Impunity for the Crimes Against Journalists on 2^nd November, Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), Somali Media Association (SOMA) and Media Women Network (MWN) called for an urgent action to end the culture of impunity for the crimes against the journalists in Somalia.

Eleven journalists were killed in the country in the past four years: 3 in 2017; 4 in 2018; 2 in 2019 and 2 in 2020, making the country to remain as one of the most dangerous places for journalists across the globe. For the sixth year in a row, the country has maintained the ignominious world title for impunity towards killed journalists. Unfortunately authorities in Somalia are reluctant to carry out credible, proper and independent thorough investigations into the cases of killings or attacks on journalists and media outlets.

The total impunity enjoyed by the killers of the journalists allows them to attack scribes for the slightest infractions as journalists now work warily, cognizant of the risks involved –unaware what report may trigger peril and self-censor as a means of survival. Corruption also remains as part of the problem.

Journalists observe a minute of silence and prayer for the slain colleagues in Somalia during the commemoration of International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists held in Mogadishu, 2 November 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

During the Monday’s commemoration, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary General of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) expressed concern about the unprecedented rise of level of assaults and targeted incidents of attacks on journalists in the country in the past few years.

“Apart from the killings, there were also attempted killings, physical assaults that resulted injuries on journalists, death threats and obstruction of access to information,” Mr. Mumin said.

Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the secretary general of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) makes a presentation on the cases of 11 journalists killed 2017-2020 during the commemoration of IDEI on 2 November 2020, Mogadishu. | PHOTO/SJS.

“We condemn all the killings against the journalists in the country as we call for authorities to open proper investigations. This should include investigating security officials, regardless of rank, complicit in abuses against journalists or who fail to adequately investigate alleged harassment, threats or violence against journalists,” Mr Mumin added.

Mohamed Abduwahab, the secretary general of Somali Media Association noted the need for ensuring safety for the journalists ahead of the upcoming general elections.

“Safety of the journalists should be at paramount importance ahead of the elections. Somali journalists have always seen a cycle of violence during the transition time and this is not an exceptional,” Mr. Abduwahab said.

Shamis Abdirahman, the Deputy Chair of Media Women Network speaks during the commemoration of IDEI held in Mogadishu, 2 November 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

Shamis Abdirahman, the deputy chair of Media Women Network expressed concern about the impact the insecurity have had on the journalists including that some journalists resorted to self-censorship.

“Throughout the country, journalists are reluctant to report on certain topics such violence against women and other human rights abuses, without fear of reprisals. This is the negative impact we have seen from the insecurity that journalists are dealing with,” Ms. Said.

On his part, Prof. Hassan Sheikh Nur, a senior Somali National University Lecturer noted the need for a wider initiative to safeguard journalists. He suggested the local communities to stand in solidarity with journalists’ organisations to protect the endangered journalists in certain locations.

Prof. Hassan Sheikh Nur, a senior Somali National University Lecturer speaks during the commemoration of IDEI in Mogadishu, 2 November 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

“I don’t think we have to wait for anybody else. Local communities and journalists’ associations must work together to protect the journalists who are in danger,” Prof Nur said.

On Monday, journalists, representatives from the media associations and members of the civil society observed a minute of silence and prayer for the slain journalists who were murdered in the line of duty before making a joint recommendations to the Somali Federal Government and the International Community.

A banner with the names and photos of 11 killed journalists displayed during the commemoration of IDEI on 2 November, 2020. | PHOTO/SJS.

Somali Government and its Member States should:

Carry out credible and independent investigation into all cases of journalists killed
Publicly condemn physical attacks, killings, threats, harassment, obstruction, intimidation and arbitrary arrests of journalists and other media workers;
Ensure that the proposed new prosecutor on crimes against journalists promptly and impartially investigates credible allegations of harassment, threats or violence against journalists and media outlets;
This should include investigating security officials, regardless of rank, complicit in abuses against journalists or who fail to adequately investigate alleged harassment, threats or violence against journalists;
Direct government officials and security forces to allow journalists and media workers access to government information including by not putting impediments and restrictions on accessing government buildings and interviewing public officials;
Train the police and other security officials on human rights including on the right to freedom of expression and media freedom;

The International Community should:

Pressure the Federal Government and its Member States to respect, protect, promote and fulfil media freedom and the rights of journalists;
Provide support to the efforts by the Somali media associations and the journalists including initiatives to ensure safety and protection for the journalists;
Support initiatives by the Somalia government to reform laws and regulatory institutions to bring them into compliance with Somalia’s international human rights obligations; provide technical support and assistance to such initiatives;
Continue supporting actions that promote the safety of journalists in Somalia and put pressure on authorities to address the issue of impunity for abuses and attacks against journalists;
Publicly speak out about the importance of human rights including the right to freedom of expression and media freedom for Somalia’s peace and state building processes;

Radio Kulmiye journalist held incommunicado for five days freed

By

Admin

-

October 22, 2020

0

Prominent Radio Kulmiye journalist, Abdullahi Kulmiye Addow has been detained after armed NISA officers raided his home in Mogadishu on Saturday 17 October, 2020. | PHOTO/SJS/COURTESY.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 22 October, 2020 – Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) and Somali Media Association (SOMA) jointly welcome the release of Radio Kulmiye journalist, Abdullahi Kulmiye Addow who was arbitrary detained and held incommunicado since Saturday night 17 October 2020, by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) in Mogadishu over an interview deemed critical to the government.

The journalist was released on midday Thursday 22 October on a condition that his radio withdraws the interview with a local businessman who allegedly criticized Somali government and supported the armed group al-Shabaab. To comply with NISA’s demand, the radio management subsequently canceled the interview, which was scheduled to be aired on Thursday 22 October, according to Radio Kulmiye director, Burhan Dini Farah.

After his freedom, journalist Addow, who complained from extreme fatigue due to the lengthy detention and sleepless nights, has confirmed to SJS and SOMA that he was held incommunicado since Saturday midnight at the notorious Godka Jila’ow prison which is a detention centre actively used by NISA. In an interview with Radio Kulmiye later on Thursday, Addow also described how he was arrested on Saturday when armed NISA officers accompanied by military officers raided his house.

“It was around midnight when NISA officers, some of them plain-clothed and armed with pistols broke into my home. Also military officers attached to the Office of Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble accompanied them,” Abdullahi Kulmiye Addow said “They told me to follow them because I was scared for the safety of my family who were at the home at that time. They took me to the jail where I was held.”

SJS and SOMA are relieved by the freedom of journalist Abdullahi Kulmiye Addow, however, we are concerned by the level of intimidation and harassment subjected to journalist Addow, his family and the entire journalists and staff of Radio Kulmiye during the period of his detention.

The ban of the interview by Radio Kulmiye is a spiteful act of censorship and a blatant attempt by the Somali federal authorities to stifle freedom of expression ahead of the national elections later this year and early next year.

“We welcome the freedom of our colleague Abdullahi Kulmiye Addow as we condemn the raid on his home on Saturday and the intimidations that followed,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary General of Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said “Somali federal authorities should stop using NISA and other security forces to attack and harass journalists and media houses aiming to silence the critical voices.”

“SJS and SOMA jointly call for an investigation into the officers who raided journalist Abdullahi Kulmiye Addow’s house on Saturday, including those allegedly from the Office of Somali Prime Minister,” Mohamed Abduwahab Abdullahi, the Secretary General of Somali Media Association (SOMA) said “We are also concerned by the increased violence on journalists and the independent media in the country recently.”

AG declares court action against critical media as restrictions on journalists rise ahead of Somalia elections

Kulan sanadeedka 2aad ee Guddiga Fulinta SJS oo Muqdisho lagu soo gaba-gabeeyay

SJS EXCOM meeting successfully concludes in Mogadishu

State and opposition should respect independent election coverage in Somalia, stop threats against journalists

Kahor doorashooyinka, waa muhiim badbaadinta xorriyadda warbaahinta Soomaaliya

Ahead of elections, safeguarding press freedom in Somalia should be prioritised

SJS & SOMA oo ugu baaqay Somaliland inay ka laabato go’aanka siyaasadeysan ee caddaaladda darrada ee ka dhanka maamulaha Astaan TV

SJS and SOMA call for Hargeisa court to reverse its politically-motivated and unjust verdict against Astaan TV CEO

On IDEI, Somali journalists and their unions call for urgent end of impunity

Radio Kulmiye journalist held incommunicado for five days freed

About Us

Quick Links

Support Our Work