Press Access Restricted by Authorities During Parliament’s Constitutional Debate, Says Journalists’ Union

Somali Journalists Face Restrictions Amid Constitutional Debates

This article examines the ongoing challenges faced by Somali journalists as they encounter increased restrictions in accessing parliamentary proceedings. The situation raises critical concerns regarding media freedom and governmental transparency during a pivotal political period in Somalia.

• Repeated denials of access to parliament for journalists.
• Concerns over media freedom amidst proposed constitutional amendments.
• Impact of restrictions on journalistic integrity and national discourse.

Access Denied: Journalists Barred from Parliament

On 28 January, a joint session of Somalia’s Federal Parliament took place, but journalists were unexpectedly barred from entering as lawmakers prepared for debate. Police officers and members of the Presidential Guard were stationed at the parliament gates to enforce this restriction, causing considerable frustration among media personnel.

Controversial Bans on Individual Journalists

On 2 February, five journalists representing various media outlets, including Arlaadi Media and Goobjoog TV, were informed that they could no longer cover parliamentary sessions. This unprecedented ban was reportedly a consequence of their publication of video footage depicting a physical altercation among lawmakers during the January session. Notably, among those affected were three women and two men journalists, all of whom remain excluded from parliamentary coverage.

Continued Restrictions on Media Access

Despite attempts to cover further parliamentary sessions, journalists faced similar denials on 7 February when they sought to report on discussions surrounding contentious constitutional amendments. This pattern of exclusion highlights ongoing tensions within the parliament, especially from opposition members who have voiced strong objections to the proposed agenda.

• Journalists witnessed leaving the parliament compound after being denied entry.
• Opposition members of parliament have actively protested the proposed amendments.
• Political contention surrounds the implications of the amendments on governance.

The Context of Constitutional Changes

The ongoing discussions about constitutional amendments in Somalia are generating significant political debate. Critics argue that the amendments could allow for increased executive power at a time when the nation approaches elections. Conversely, supporters maintain that these changes are essential for streamlining governance and advancing state-building efforts.

Interference from National Intelligence Agency

In a separate incident, the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) reported an alarming encounter involving an armed officer from Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) at Radio Risaala, a privately owned station in Mogadishu. On 31 January, the officer blocked access to the station, reportedly in response to its coverage of opposition meetings and unrest within parliament.

• Two journalists had their mobile phones confiscated by the NISA officer.
• The officer remained at the entrance until midday, significantly disrupting operations.
• Radio Risaala has a history of pressure from NISA and the Ministry of Information.

Legal Protections for Journalists

In response to these incidents, Abdalle Mumin, Secretary General of SJS, emphasized the legal rights of journalists to access parliamentary proceedings, especially during discussions of national significance. This highlights the essential role of a free press in promoting democracy and accountability.

Future Implications and Governmental Accountability

Somali authorities have yet to issue any public statements addressing the reported restrictions on media access. As parliament reconvenes with an apparent lack of attendance from opposition MPs, many journalists remain vigilant, aware that a free press is crucial for transparent governance amidst impending discussions on constitutional changes and the 2026 elections.

By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.