Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard2
Published on 2024-02-27 07:57:36
The Somali Journalists’ Association has launched an official plea for the immediate release of journalist Mohudin Mohamed, who was taken into custody by regional security personnel on February 13, 2024. Mohudin, who was previously associated with Kalsan TV, now operates as a social media blogger. The reason for his detention stemmed from his posts on social media platforms about the traffic disruptions in Jigjiga, the capital of the Somali Regional State, following Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s recent visit.
Abdulrazaq Hassan, the chairman of the Association, disclosed that Mohudin was detained at his home and held in an undisclosed prison for seven days without any formal charges. He was later transferred to the Fafan Zone police station and appeared in court on February 20, where he faced accusations of spreading false propaganda. The court granted a 10-day period for police investigations. Abdulrazaq mentioned that the Association members are diligently visiting Mohudin in prison three times a day and are working with lawyers to secure his release.
Mohudin is not the only journalist who has been detained in the Somali Regional State. Journalist Muhiyadin Mohammed Ali, also linked to Kalsan TV, was arrested a year ago shortly after the region’s communication bureau decided to halt the broadcasts of 15 foreign media outlets in the area. The bureau alleged that reporters from these outlets, operating within the region, were doing so without proper licenses. Among the foreign media outlets accused of unauthorized operations were Kalsan TV, BBC, and VOA Somali Service.
In response to the ban on foreign media outlets, the Association, established in September 2021, released a statement asserting that the regional government was involved in the prohibition of these outlets under the guise of license issues.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by journalists in the region and the importance of press freedom. It is essential for media outlets to operate without fear of reprisal and for journalists to be able to report on critical issues without the threat of arrest or censorship. The Somali Journalists’ Association continues to advocate for the release of Mohudin Mohamed and other journalists who have been detained in the Somali Regional State, emphasizing the importance of upholding freedom of expression and the press.
The incident involving Mohudin Mohamed serves as a reminder of the risks journalists face in carrying out their work in restrictive environments. It is crucial for authorities to respect the rights of journalists and ensure their safety and freedom to report on matters of public interest. The Somali Journalists’ Association’s efforts to secure the release of Mohudin and support other detained journalists demonstrate its commitment to defending press freedom and the rights of media professionals in the region.
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