The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) condemns – in the strongest terms possible – the arrest of a Somali journalist on Saturday, 19 November, 2016 in Galkayo.
The arrest of Ahmed Khalif Geedi who worked for Kulmiye Radio, came after the journalist reported an overnight shooting in the heart of the city.
NUSOJ is concerned about the arrest of the journalist without due process and asks Galmudug leaders to release the journalist unconditionally.
Press freedom is a critical issue in Somali regional states, where journalists are still harassed and jailed,” said Mohamed Ibrahim Moalimu, NUSOJ Secretary General. “We call for the immediate and unconditional release of Ahmed Khalif Geedi as there is no lawful reason for his detention,” Moalimu added.
The officers in charge of the Police station where the journalist is detained confirmed that Ahmed Khalif Geedi was arrested after the order was given by senior officials from Galmudug state.
State administrations continue to put pressure on Media Houses to sensor them. Radio Galgadud in Gura’el town in central Somalia still remains off air since 14th of November 2016 after its equipment was confiscated by the local authority.
More than 30 journalists were arrested in several parts of Somalia including the capital and the National Union of Somali Journalists is very much concerned with the continuing harassment against Somali journalists in the country.
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