Press Freedom Crisis in Somalia: A Call for Intervention

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Tuesday marked a critical gathering in Mogadishu as press freedom organizations met with members of the international diplomatic community to address the deteriorating state of free expression in Somalia.

Representatives from various advocacy groups, including International Media Support (IMS), congregated with officials from the Ministry of Information, journalists from the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), and international diplomats. The sense of urgency intensified as discussions centered around the rising repression faced by Somali journalists, particularly those stationed in Mogadishu.

Alarming concerns were addressed regarding the escalating attacks on journalists, media houses, and SJS members. These incidents have surged following aggressive public statements by government officials linked to the police and the Ministry of Information.

“Since the March 6 statement by Minister of Information Daud Aweis Jama and Mogadishu Police Commissioner Moalim Mahdi, we have witnessed a disturbing rise in attacks on journalists. Press freedom is at risk in Somalia. The Somali government, along with the Ministry of Information and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), is targeting journalists for their independent reporting,” remarked Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, during the meeting.

Covering security issues such as the threats posed by the Al-Shabaab terror group, government corruption, and human rights abuses remain perilous for journalists, particularly those working in Mogadishu. The March 6 directive from Minister Daud Aweis and Commissioner Mahdi Omar Muumin—an ex-defector of Al-Shabaab—warning of “severe punishment” for media outlets daring to publish security-related news, has unleashed a new wave of suppression.

This environment of fear doesn’t only impact independent journalists. Even those associated with state media face suspensions, dismissals, and threats. Women journalists encounter specific risks, including threats of sexual violence, underscoring a broader pattern of intimidation.

Press freedom advocates and the diplomatic community stressed their commitment to supporting Somali journalists. There’s a clarion call for tangible measures to protect them. Between January 1 and April 30, 2025, 46 journalists were arrested across Somalia, with most incidents occurring in Mogadishu. The recent events highlight the perilous environment Somali journalists face. One such tragic event was the death of journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe, who was killed in an Al-Shabaab bombing on March 18.

NISA’s history of unlawful detentions remains a concern, particularly in Mogadishu, where 41 of 46 arrests occurred. The city’s significance and danger for journalists were stressed repeatedly during discussions. Allegations against state security forces, including many former Al-Shabaab defectors, for raids and arrests, paint a troubling picture of impunity.

“Today’s engagement with the diplomatic community reinforces our commitment. Media freedom is vital for democracy, peacebuilding, and countering violent extremism,” said Abdalle Mumin, SJS Secretary General.

Reflecting on the day’s discussions, Mumin expressed heartfelt appreciation for international support, reiterating that an independent media is crucial for democratic progress in Somalia. He boldly stated, “Accountability is key. Those targeting journalists must face consequences, regardless of their power or affiliations.”

As we look towards future efforts to safeguard press freedom in Somalia, we are reminded of the words of Abdalle Mumin: “There is no democratic Somalia without a strong independent media.”