FESOJ and Free Press Unlimited hold forum meeting on challenges to the safety and protection of journalists in Mogadishu

Mogadishu, 1st October 2018 – Somali Journalists, members of the civil society and some members of the security Agencies of the Federal Government of Somalia gathered yesterday in Mogadishu to discuss challenges to the safety and protection of Somali Journalists. The meeting was organized by the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) in collaboration with the Free Press Unlimited. The forum is part of series media projects implemented by FPU and funded by EU Delegation in Somalia. The panel of discussion including regional police commander, Presidential communications director, Human rights activists among others share best way to tackle challenges on protection and safety.

In Somalia, freedom of expression and free flow of information are cornerstones of public debate and democracy. Being the watchdogs of these freedoms, journalists are crucial to the very functioning of our societies. Yet, freedom of expression and the safety of journalists are facing major challenges. Journalists and other media actors are facing threats such as censorship, political and economic pressure, intimidation, job insecurity, abusive use of defamation laws as well as physical attacks.

The Secretary General of NUSOJ, Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim discussed deeply on a recent treat of killing against a journalist, Mr. Munasar Mohamed. The journalist released a detail report on a recent incident of killing and burnt against Mukhtar Ahmed Dowlo when the victim was killed because of racism. The journalist is still under threat of killing.

The Communication Director of the President’s Office, Mr. Abdinur Mohamed stated that press freedom coupled with responsibility and it is the way forward in our quest for democratic, peaceful and prosperous Somalia. “the role of the media is very significant across the globe and its freedom must be protected but professionalism, accountability and responsibility are key pillars for Journalists!”, he added. “Journalists should operate without fear or intimidation but with professionalism and accountability!” concludes Mr. Abdinur.
There is need for more accountability and responsibility among Somali Journalists during their coverage to reduce risk on safety and protection, says the Director of Ministry of Information Abdulrahman AlCadala.

The Regional Police Commander indicated that there is a process to setting up a complaint desk for Journalists to report and resolve the difference between the security agency and the media. He urged journalist to provide report based on the fact and to avoid unconfirmed reports.
The Chairperson of Somali Woman journalists (SWJ), Miss. Farhia Kheyre discussed safety and protection challenges facing female media workers. “Journalists should not cover every story that harms their lives. Farhia said. She expressed that quality is more important than quantity when it comes to news coverage and urged journalists to focus on quality media.

A civil society activist, from National Human Rights Coalition Ms. Faiza Mohammed indicated that Journalists should take threats very serious and share with relevant organizations for possible protection.
With this statement, NUSOJ hereby welcomes the unconditional release of broadcast journalist Mohamed Abdiweli Tohow around midnight last night. Mr. Mohamed was illegally sentenced a 6-year jail term on Saturday by Galnudug martial court when he was arrested on 22 Sep 2018.
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