Freedom of speech, press freedom, and independent journalism must be protected in accordance with Somalia's constitutional principles and international human rights obligations.

ASSOCIATED SOMALI JOURNALISTS (ASOJ) CONDEMNS GROWING PRESSURE ON INDEPENDENT MEDIA IN SOMALIA

Mogadishu, Somalia – May 17, 2026

The Associated Somali Journalists (ASOJ) expresses serious concern over the worsening situation facing independent journalists, media workers, commentators, and freedom of expression in Somalia.

ASOJ warns that Somalia is increasingly entering a dangerous environment where independent media voices are facing intimidation, censorship, arbitrary arrests, political pressure, and attempts to silence critical reporting through both coercion and financial influence.

Independent journalism remains one of the most important pillars of accountability, transparency, democracy, and public awareness. Any effort aimed at suppressing journalists and restricting independent reporting threatens democratic progress and weakens public trust in national institutions.

ASOJ specifically calls on the Federal Government of Somalia and all Federal Member States to immediately stop:

• Suppression and intimidation targeting journalists and media workers

• Arbitrary arrests linked to political expression and independent reporting

• The use of bribery, financial pressure, and political influence to silence media voices

• Threats, harassment, and censorship directed at journalists and commentators

ASOJ further emphasizes that freedom of speech and press freedom are fundamental constitutional rights that must be protected in accordance with Somalia’s constitutional principles and international human rights obligations.

A democratic society cannot survive without independent voices, critical journalism, and open public debate.

ASSOCIATED SOMALI JOURNALISTS (ASOJ)

Defending Press Freedom • Empowering Somali Journalists • Promoting Independent Media

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