NUSOJ Secretary General Omar Faruk Osman addressed the press, flanked by fellow journalists, during a significant event dedicated to the International Day to End Impunity Against Journalists in Mogadishu. [HANDOUT]
The Somali government, alongside various diplomats stationed in the country, has made a united plea for enhanced safety measures for media professionals.
This initiative comes as they vow to create a more secure atmosphere for journalists working within the nation.
During the event, Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir, the Minister of Education, Culture, and Higher Education, emphasized the urgency of eliminating impunity from the Somali landscape. “We understand that impunity erodes the pillars of justice and democracy,” he asserted.
His remarks took place on a day dedicated to acknowledging the plight of journalists facing violence and threats in their line of work.
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), in collaboration with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and its Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF), organized a national observation on November 2. This event paid tribute to Somali journalists who lost their lives while fulfilling their duties, underlining the theme “Justice for Journalists.”
Omar Faruk Osman, speaking on behalf of NUSOJ, stressed the pressing need to put an end to impunity directed at journalists. He commended the bravery exhibited by Somali journalists, noting it was unparalleled.
“The fearlessness of Somali journalists sets them apart. They put their lives on the line in pursuit of truth, and it falls upon us all to ensure their sacrifices do not go unrecognized. Justice must triumph, and impunity can no longer be tolerated. Somalia’s future hinges on the presence of free and secure journalists,” he remarked.
In the past 15 years, violence has claimed the lives of at least 62 journalists in the country.
Various diplomats present at the ceremony echoed the call for safer work conditions for journalists.
British Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, highlighted the crucial role of journalists in upholding democracy. He pointed out that despite numerous hurdles, the media landscape in Somalia continues to flourish.
“Amidst the persistent dangers you face, Somali media keeps evolving, whether through national broadcasters, local radio stations, or the emerging wave of independent online influencers contributing to the vibrant media tapestry in Somalia. The UK firmly supports media freedom on a global scale,” Nithavrianakis commented.
Similarly, U.S. Ambassador Richard Riley asserted that his country stands firmly with journalists and advocates for a cessation of impunity. “The United States stands resolute with you against impunity. We are dedicated to ensuring accountability for those responsible for violence against journalists and to fostering a safer, more liberated environment for media professionals. Through collaborations with organizations like UNESCO and NUSOJ, we aim to guarantee that journalists can perform their vital roles without fear of retribution,” he stated.
Swedish Ambassador Joachim Waern added that addressing impunity is a collective duty of the international community. He underscored the importance of holding wrongdoers accountable in order to foster meaningful change, reiterating Sweden’s ongoing support for Somali journalists.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
