Somali police chief, rights commission discuss oversight of detention centers
Both sides stressed the importance of protecting citizens’ rights while ensuring police conduct remains aligned with human rights standards and the rule of law.
Saturday May 23, 2026
Mogadishu (AX) — In a meeting that underscored mounting attention to rights protections in Somalia, Somali Police Force chief Brig. Gen. Asad Osman Abdullahi held talks with leaders of the Independent National Human Rights Commission on cooperation in safeguarding human rights, improving accountability and strengthening oversight of detention facilities.
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The commission was represented by Chairperson Dr. Maryam Qaasim, Deputy Chairperson Mohamed Harun, Director General Mustafa Ahmed and other commissioners.
Officials said the discussions centered on deepening coordination between the police and the commission, with particular focus on how public complaints are handled, how prisons and detention centers are monitored, and how accountability can be reinforced inside law enforcement institutions.
Both sides stressed the importance of protecting citizens’ rights while ensuring police conduct remains aligned with human rights standards and the rule of law.
The meeting also highlighted the need for regular engagement between security agencies and rights bodies, a step officials said could improve oversight, advance justice and strengthen public trust in national institutions.
The talks come at a time when Somali authorities are facing increased scrutiny from rights groups and opposition figures over arrests, detention conditions and the response to public protests in Mogadishu.
