Somali Attorney General Indicts 19 Influencers for Inciting Clan-Based Hate on Social Media

Mogadishu (AX) – On Tuesday, the National Attorney General’s Office filed charges against 19 social media influencers, summoning them to the Banadir Regional Court for spreading clan-centric slurs and partaking in “improper conduct” online.

The Office of the Attorney General claims that these individuals sparked ethnic animosities, jeopardized public safety, fueled malice, and hurled insults, using platforms like TikTok.

The office has asked the Banadir Regional Court to promptly commence the trial.

The Attorney General’s office has also sternly cautioned against the misuse of social media in ways antithetical to Islamic teachings and Somali cultural ethos. Last month, Somali law enforcement apprehended 21 social media personalities of both genders, though two were later freed due to health issues.

Many Somalis contend that trading clan and familial slander for cash is indefensible. The deployment of vile language and threats garners hefty disapproval from the Somali government, labeling it as wicked. The issue of clannism remains profoundly touchy in Somali society, with myriad conflicts springing from tribal rifts.

This week alone, over 50 individuals perished and 60 others were injured in inter-clan skirmishes in rural regions between Herale and Abudwaq towns within the Galgaduud province. The bloodshed erupted from a quarrel over grazing trails and water wells.