The Somali Media Association (SOMA) strongly condemns the unlawful arrest and detention of journalist Kadar Abdirahman of Himilo Media, and commends the Benadir Regional Court for upholding justice by ordering his immediate release after finding him not guilty of any wrongdoing.
Kadar was arrested on 12 October and appeared before the court on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. Following a fair and transparent hearing, the court found no evidence of any criminal offense and directed his immediate release from custody.
Speaking after the court ruling, Mohamed Abdiwahab, Secretary-General of SOMA and SMSJ, stated:
“We strongly condemn the illegal arrest and detention of journalist Kadar, who was unjustly deprived of his liberty in clear violation of due process. We commend the Benadir Regional Court for restoring his freedom and ensuring that justice prevailed.”
He further emphasized: “It is important for both the Somali public and the international community to understand that there is currently no functional Media Council of Somalia representing Somali journalists. If such an institution were properly established and operational, many of these arbitrary arrests and detentions could have been prevented.”
SOMA calls on national authorities, international partners, and press freedom advocates to acknowledge this institutional vacuum and support the creation of a credible, independent, and representative Media Council of Somalia.
The Association reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending press freedom, justice, and the rights and safety of journalists throughout the country. SOMA urges all authorities to respect legal procedures and protect journalists’ rights to operate freely, without fear or intimidation.
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For media inquiries:
Somali Media Association (SOMA)
Email: info@soma.org.so
Pebsite: soma.org.so