Mogadishu, SOMALIA – The government of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has intensified its efforts to stifle press freedom in Somalia. The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) and the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) have both issued strongly worded statements condemning the government’s actions, which include the freezing of SJS bank accounts and the arbitrary arrest of independent journalist Hussein Abdulle Mohamed.
On April 13, 2024, SJS received a shocking email notification from their local bank, informing them that their accounts had been “frozen” following an order issued by the Banadir Regional Court. The court’s letter demanded an “investigation into SJS financial transactions” without providing any justification or explanation for the move. Despite repeated attempts by SJS to seek clarification, both in writing and orally, no response was forthcoming. Even when SJS lawyers visited the court on Sunday to gather more information, they were met with a wall of silence.
This blatant attack on SJS and its ability to operate freely is a clear indication of the government’s growing intolerance towards independent media organizations. The freezing of SJS bank accounts is a deliberate attempt to hinder the organization’s operations and silence its critical voice. Such actions not only undermine press freedom but also deprive the Somali public of access to vital information and analysis.
Likewise, NUSOJ today released a statement condemning the arbitrary arrest and overnight detention of independent journalist Hussein Abdulle Mohamed. According to NUSOJ, National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) operatives targeted Mr. Mohamed following his broadcast of in-depth and critical reports on his online channel, SYL Somali TV, accessible via Facebook. Senior NISA officials had reportedly summoned Mr. Mohamed to a meeting before his detention, suggesting they premeditated his arrest as an act of retaliation for his critical reporting.
Growing Draconian Policies and Their Implications
The arbitrary detention of Hussein Abdulle Mohamed is a flagrant violation of his rights as a journalist and a citizen. It sends a chilling message to other media professionals in Somalia, warning them of the consequences of reporting on sensitive issues or criticizing those in power. Such actions not only stifle press freedom but also erode public trust in the government and its institutions.
The crackdown on SJS and the arrest of Hussein Abdulle Mohamed are part of a broader pattern of repression and censorship under the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. These incidents are indicative of the government’s growing draconian policies, which seek to silence dissent and maintain a tight grip on the flow of information.
The implications of these actions are far-reaching and deeply concerning. A free and independent press is essential for any democratic society, as it serves as a watchdog against abuse of power and corruption. By targeting organizations like SJS and journalists like Hussein Abdulle Mohamed, the government is effectively undermining the public’s right to information and hindering the development of a transparent and accountable political system.
Moreover, the crackdown on press freedom could have serious consequences for Somalia’s ongoing battle against Al-Shabab. Independent media plays a crucial role in exposing the group’s atrocities and countering its propaganda. By silencing critical voices and restricting access to information, the government risks creating an environment in which extremist ideologies can thrive unchallenged.
The Need for Solidarity
It is imperative that the international community takes notice of these alarming developments and puts pressure on the Somali government to respect press freedom and the rights of journalists. Authorities must allow organizations like SJS and NUSOJ to operate freely, without fear of retribution or interference. They must also immediately release journalists like Hussein Abdulle Mohamed, enabling them to continue their vital work of informing the public and holding those in power accountable.
The people of Somalia deserve access to reliable, unbiased information, and a government that values transparency and accountability. The actions of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration threaten to undermine these fundamental principles and plunge the country into a new era of repression and authoritarianism. It is time for all those who value democracy and human rights to stand up and demand change before it is too late.
International organizations, human rights groups, and media advocacy networks must come together to support SJS, NUSOJ, and journalists like Hussein Abdulle Mohamed. Solidarity campaigns, public statements, and diplomatic pressure can all play a role in pushing back against the Somali government’s draconian measures and defending the right to a free press.
