Banadir Police Chief Moalin Mahdi orders police officers to start arresting critics of the presidential family, courts, and the police force. The controversial directive has raised concerns about freedom of speech and media freedom in Somalia.
Mogadishu, SOMALIA. By Dalmar:
In his statement, Mahdi asserted that public discourse and media outlets were increasingly taking on law enforcement roles and judiciary roles. He emphasized the need to address the digital and social media landscape. “It is unacceptable to have digital ‘checkpoints’. We will bring the person who complains about a court verdict to the court. [The public and media] cannot criticize the police for law enforcement. We will not accept anyone going to the media and criticizing the police. The police won’t tolerate that.”
Mahdi further highlighted instances of people abusing national leaders. He stressed that Somalia’s law criminalizes such actions, especially if they target the President and his family. “Every police officer must detain and take such a person to court. We are not talking about politics. However, the honour and dignity of the President should be respected. The President is the national symbol,” he stated.
Any criticism against the President and the first family is tantamount to tarnishing the state’s image. According to Mahdi, this makes the state the ultimate victim, which is unacceptable.
Widespread criticism and controversy
The directive has sparked widespread criticism and controversy. Paramountly, it raised concerns about freedom of speech and media freedom in Somalia. Critics argue that Mahdi’s remarks indicate a troubling trend in Somalia – suppressing freedom of speech and silencing dissent. Analysts point out that such measures are emblematic of police states, where the regime and law enforcement agencies cannot be subject to open criticism.
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