The meeting brought together press freedom advocates, representatives from International Media Support (IMS), officials from the Ministry of Information who have been targeting journalists including SJS, and members of the diplomatic community.

Participants voiced alarm over the increasing repression targeting Somali journalists, particularly those based in Mogadishu, and the broader erosion of press freedom across the country.

The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) expressed grave concern over the escalating attacks on journalists, SJS members, and independent media houses. These attacks have intensified following public threats issued by government officials from the police and the the Ministry of Information.

“Since the statement by the Minister of Information Daud Aweis Jama and the Mogadishu Police Commissioner, Moalim Mahdi on 6 March 2025, attacks on journalists have significantly increased. Press freedom is dying in Somalia. We are deeply concerned that the Somali government—specifically the Ministry of Information, police forces, and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA)—is deliberately targeting journalists for their independent reporting,” said Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, during the meeting.

Reporting on security issues including threats posed by Al-Shabaab terror group, government corruption and human rights abuses remain a red line for journalists in Somalia, particularly in Mogadishu.

The 6 March statement by Minister Daud Aweis and Mogadishu Police Commissioner Mahdi Omar Muumin (known as Moalim Mahdi who is also an ex-defector of Al-Shabaab), which openly threatened “severe punishment” media outlets against publishing any reporting related to security has triggered a new wave of suppression.

Participants also highlighted the growing intimidation of journalists working for state media in Mogadishu, many of whom have faced threats, suspensions, and dismissals for critical reporting or expressing independent views.

Serious concern was raised regarding threats against women journalists, including threats of sexual violence and other security risks, which have become increasingly common.

The diplomatic community was urged to stand in support of press freedom advocacy and to take meaningful steps to ensure the safety and protection of Somali journalists.

Between 1 January and 30 April 2025, a total of 46 journalists were arrested or detained across Somalia, according to SJS documentation. Journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe was killed in Al-Shabaab bombing in Mogadishu on 18 March. Additionally, two journalists were kidnapped and have since disappeared in Lower Shabelle, Southwest State. Both government forces and Al-Shabaab have contributed to an increasingly hostile environment for the press, marked by physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, killings, and online censorship.

State security forces and police—many of whom are former Al-Shabaab defectors—were behind most of the raids, arrests, and intimidation incidents. NISA continued its practice of unlawful detentions and harassment, particularly in Mogadishu. Of the 46 arrests so far, 41 occurred in Mogadishu alone, underscoring how Mogadishu remains a dangerous place for journalists.

Reflecting today’s engagement, the SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, thanked the diplomatic community for their efforts and reiterated a strong call for media freedom as a cornerstone of democracy, peacebuilding, and efforts to counter violent extremism.

“I take this opportunity to remind Somalia’s international partners that there can be no democratic Somalia unless we have a strong and independent media, and the international community must act to defend free media. Accountability is key to ending this cycle of violence subjected to the journalist community in Somalia including SJS members. Let us make no mistake: those who target journalists must be held accountable, no matter how powerful they are or whether they command armed groups,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

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SJS is deeply honored that our Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, has been named among this year’s distinguished 2025 finalists. [Read finalists here]

Beyond his role at SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin has relentlessly dedicated his life to defending press freedom, promoting transparency, and standing up for human rights in Somalia—often at grave personal risk. He has faced imprisonment, torture, threats, and endless persecution simply for speaking truth to power.

“Abdalle Mumin was imprisoned because of his unwavering commitment to defending human rights and press freedom in Somalia. His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” said Mohamed Ibrahim, President of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS). “Abdalle’s courage fuels a new generation of truth-tellers and justice seekers. His recognition not only honors his sacrifice but also reinforces SJS’s commitment to our critical mission—pursuing press freedom, defending journalists, and promoting human rights with even greater determination and resilience.”

His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” – Mohamed Ibrahim, SJS President.

“Let us be absolutely clear: If Abdalle Mumin wins this award, it will be a resounding recognition of his bravery, unwavering dedication, and personal sacrifice in defense of human rights, government accountability, and media freedom. It will undoubtedly inspire thousands of journalists and human rights defenders across Somalia and beyond,” adds Mr. Ibrahim. “Moreover, it will send an unmistakable message to those who seek to silence truth and oppress freedom—that the world is watching, and it stands firmly with those who dare to speak out.”

The entire SJS network of journalists and community of defenders stand proudly beside our Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, and reaffirms our unwavering commitment to advancing press freedom, protecting journalists, and promoting human rights.  We also extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Abdalle on this remarkable recognition.

The Allard Prize, named after Peter A. Allard, a Canadian lawyer and renowned human rights champion, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and courage in combating corruption and defending human rights.

The Allard Prize Award Ceremony will be held on June 17, 2025, at Tribeca Rooftop in New York City, U.S, where the winner will receive a $100,000 CAD prize.

The event, inaugurated by the Minister of Justice of Puntland, H.E. Mohamed Abdiwahab, brought together representatives from diverse sectors, including the Puntland Police, the Puntland Media Association (MAP), human rights defenders, Midnimo Women Network, and the Puntland Non-State Actors’ Association (PUNSA).

H.E. Mohamed Abdiwahab highlighted Puntland’s progress in advancing human rights through legislative reforms and institutional strengthening.

“Somalia has yet to fully learn from the violations of the past, such as killings and detentions that defied human rights principles. However, in Puntland, we have made significant strides. We have enacted human rights laws, implemented child protection legislation, and strengthened judicial institutions to safeguard citizens’ rights,” he stated.

Emphasizing democratic participation as a fundamental right, the minister added, “We have entrusted Puntland’s future to its citizens through elections, allowing them to exercise their voice and take part in decision-making. Puntland remains committed to defending and promoting human rights.”

Naimo Muse Elmi, Secretary of MAP, emphasized the pivotal role of the media in advocating for human rights.

“All people are equal; no one is superior in dignity or honor to another. The media has a duty to uphold this principle. I commend the Puntland media for their prominent role in defending human rights,” she remarked.

SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Bulbul, speaking at the panel stressed the importance of protecting journalists within the broader human rights context.

“Journalists in our country play a crucial role in defending human rights, and this contribution is visible. Society must recognize that defending journalists is equivalent to defending the public interest and all other rights,” he stated.

The panel also addressed the challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly women, in Puntland. Ifrah Abdi Nur from Midnimo Women Network highlighted the severe underrepresentation of women in politics.

“The violations we face are numerous, but one of the most glaring issues is the lack of women’s participation in politics. For instance, there is only one woman in the current Puntland Parliament, which itself is a violation of equal representation in the government,” she said.

Said Mumin, from Puntland Human Rights Defenders, outlined persistent human rights abuses in the region.

“Violations such as sexual violence, torture, killings, and human trafficking remain prevalent. Citizens are often denied their basic rights, and addressing these issues requires collective action from both the government and society,” he explained.

Puntland police officer, Abdi Darwiish, reaffirmed to the panel that the government’s dedication to upholding human rights in Puntland.

“Puntland is not among the regions where gross violations occur rampantly. The rule of law and judicial processes are functional here. However, there remains much issues to address, especially in cases involving human rights abuses in Puntland,” he noted, “As the police in Puntland We are working to improve the situation of the human rights.”

Participants from various sectors of the society—including journalists, representatives of the internally displaced community, women’s groups, youth representatives, police, human rights activists, and business leaders—raised critical questions about the state of freedoms in Puntland.

Key issues discussed included arbitrary detentions of government critics, including journalists, the stigmatization of people living with HIV, lack of access to education for the displaced people, and discrimination against minority groups and women in employment opportunities.

SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin thanked the Puntland police and civil society members who participated in the panel discussion, which was also broadcast on local media, for their openness in addressing challenging questions from the public.

“I thank everyone who participated in the panel discussion. Indeed, when people come together and have the ability to discuss important issues affecting their community, it brings a sense of cohesion, unity, and healing. I hope the Puntland government will address the key issues raised during the discussion, and that we will see closer cooperation between the government and its people to improve the human rights situation,” Mr. Mumin added.

The event, supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), concluded with a call for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to address human rights challenges, ensuring justice, equality, and dignity for all citizens in Puntland and Somalia.

SJS Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin was first arbitrarily detained on 11 October 2022 a day after the media advocacy groups released a joint press statement raising concerns on a restrictive directive issued by the ministry of information. Mr. Mumin’s detention followed a raid on SJS offices. He was held at the notorious Godka Jila’ow for two days before he was jailed at the criminal investigation department for another 10 days before he was released on bail. The 45 days requested by the Office of the Attorney General and Police ended today 26 November, 2022 respectively.

Abdalle Ahmed Mumin has been impacted for 45 days since he was not able to do his work, restricted from traveling and therefore jointly call for the court to dismiss the case and let Abdalle do his work.

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.

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.

“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.

“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.

“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

• 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.

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

1. 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.
   
2. 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.
   
3. 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.
   
4. 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.
   
5. 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.
   
6. 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.
   
7. 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.
8. 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.
   
9. 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.
   
10. 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.
    
11. 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. 
    
12. 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

Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu, SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, said the decision by the U.S Secretary of State, Anthony J. Blinken to sign the implementation of a policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act that restricts the issuance of visas to the targeted individuals was just and timely.

“We, the Somali media community, welcome Secretary Anthony Blinken’s decision as a move to uphold justice, protection of human rights including the right to freedom of expression and freedom to assembly and hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable. Those who harass, arrest and intimidate journalists now know that they are going away with their crimes even if they are powerful officials,” Mr. Mumin said.

SJS and SOMA are jointly urging other members of the international community such as the European Union (EU), Canada, the United Kingdom (UK), Turkey, the African Union and the Arab League to take similar action as the United States. The international community has a moral mandate to promote and protect the effective enjoyment by all of all human rights including the right to freedom of expression and media.

“We urge other countries such as the EU, Canada, the United Kingdom, Turkey, the African Union and the Arab League to follow suit and take similar action as the United States. The protection of journalists and human rights defenders, and ending impunity for attacks against them, must become a priority for all international partners supporting Somalia’s state-building,” adds Mr. Mumin.

SOMA Secretary General, Mohamed Osman Makaraan said the endangered Somali journalists have been for longtime waiting to see an end of the impunity for crimes against journalists and media professionals.

“Today we see the international community – especially the U.S Government – taking its responsibility and standing up for the rights of journalists in Somalia by targeting those who attack, intimidate and violate rights of journalists,” Makaraan said “We request all other international partners to stand for safeguarding free press in Somalia. Those who attack journalists and human rights defenders must not enjoy with impunity.”

Kilwe was detained by Puntland’s Intelligence Agency (PISA) in Garowe on 27 December 2020 a a day after he reported anti-inflation protest in Garowe.

During the Saturday’s court hearing, Kilwe was brought at the First Instance Court of the Armed Forces where a military prosecutor put forward five charges: Instigation of delinquency; Instigation of Disobey to the Laws; Publication or Circulation of False, Exaggerated or Tendencious News Capable of Disturbing Public Order; Offence against the Authorities by Means of Damaging Posters; and Bringing the Nation or the State into Contempt. The prosecutor asked the Military Court to sentence Kilwe with 10 years imprisonment.

However, the defense lawyer Mustafe Mohamed Jama, who is representing Kilwe on behalf of SJS, challenged the military prosecutor’s charges and questioned the military court’s jurisdiction over the journalist’s case. The lawyer also insisted that his client is a professional journalist and that journalism was not a crime under the Somali laws and therefore there was no a case to be heard at the Court.

The defense Lawyer further appealed the Court to free Kilwe and instruct authorities to compensate for his time in the jail. The Court judge demanded the military prosecutor to bring evidences for the charges he brought before the Court session was adjourned in mid-day without mentioning when the next hearing will take place.

“My client journalist Kilwe Adan Farah has today appeared before the military court. It was very shocking that authorities are trying to break the laws by putting a journalist in a military court. This is absolutely a slap on the face on the Puntland justice and the country’s laws,” defense lawyer Mustafe said shortly after the court was closed.  

Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) is concerned about the continued detention and judicial harassment against Kilwe Adan through a military court trail. Trying the journalist Kilwe before a military tribunal violates the Somali Federal Constitution and the Puntland Constitution. It also violates the norm of international law that military courts should not have jurisdiction over civilians. Also, Kilwe’s trial violates the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Principles and Guidelines on the right to fair trial and legal assistance in Africa state that military courts should not “in any circumstances whatsoever have jurisdiction over civilians.”

“We demand the unconditional release of our colleague Kilwe who is detained for more two months now. We also call for the military court to drop these politically motivated charges against Kilwe,” Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, Secretary General of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) said, “Puntland authorities, especially top government officials should refrain from using the military court to silence independent journalists in Puntland.”

“Prosecuting journalists for incitement and publication of false news or bringing contempt to the state or government officials are incompatible with Somalia’s obligations under Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which Somalia is a party,” Mr. Mumin added.

A London based international barrister, Michael Polak who is helping with the Kilwe case stated “moving from a charge of attempted murder, which has been abandoned, to offences clearly aimed at preventing journalistic activity and pursuing Kilwe through the Military Court when he is a civilian shows that these proceedings are a farce. The President of Puntland and the Military Court Judge must step forward to end this embarrassing affair.”

On 1 February 2021, Kilwe was nominated among the 10 Most Urgent Press Freedom cases for February 2021 by the One Free Press Coalition, which is an international coalition of media houses and organizations that stand up for journalists under attack for pursuing the truth worldwide.

READ FULL LETTER HERE