The state-run television station SNTV and Radio Mogadishu have been ordered not to cover the ongoing political crisis that has pitted Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire and Speaker of the Lower House Mohamed Osman Jawari.
Radio Dalsan has learnt that the management of the state-run television and radio met with the PM Khaire, Speaker Jawari where they had a gentleman agreement not to air the ongoing crisis.
“We find it shameful to air the government ´s dirty laundry to the public. That is why we came to a conclusion to avoid covering news of MPs accusations and counter-accusations for the sake of our country´s stability†an SNTV journalist who decline to be named told Radio Dalsan.
Khaire according to our source was however lukewarm to blacking out the current crisis.
“MPs are sworn as honourable members of Parliament and we cannot accept to air insults, accusations and counter-accusations in a state-run television and radio.What will the public think of their representatives.†a managerial level state TV employee told Radio Dalsan.
“By avoiding the coverage of the crisis we are also avoiding possibilities of being blamed. Someone could charge you easily that you are supporting one of the sides” Radio Muqdisho reporter told Radio Dalsan.
Somalis on social media have been expressing their sentiments over the issue with majority bashing the blackout.
Khaire and Jawari have been at loggerhead since the introduction of the failed motion of no confidence against the Speaker.
