Mogadishu (Isbahaysi) – The Independent Media Council of Somalia (IMCoS) has issued a stern warning regarding the newly formed National Media Council, calling it a significant threat to press freedom in the country. The announcement came during a meeting in Mogadishu, where IMCoS addressed the growing challenges faced by journalists and expressed deep concerns over the state of media freedom in Somalia.
IMCoS chairman Yusuf Hassan spoke at a press conference, highlighting that government offices have begun appointing special reporters to control news dissemination. This move, he argued, is sidelining independent media and denying them access to constitutionally guaranteed information. Hassan criticized the increasing interference, where government officials dictate what can be published, further stifling press freedom.
The formation of the National Media Council, according to IMCoS, lacks a proper legal basis and contradicts Somali press law. Hassan described its establishment as a “flagrant violation of the law” and warned of its dangers to the already fragile media environment in Somalia.
“We see this as a kidnapping and overthrow of the independent press,” Hassan asserted. The 9-member council which is supposed to compose of three representatives from the independent press, three from the government, and three from civil society organizations, does not adhere to the established legal process for its formation, he noted. This deviation raises serious questions about its legitimacy and purpose.
IMCoS also expressed concern over the Council’s composition, alleging that it is packed with figures closely aligned with the government, further violating media law and threatening press independence.
“We are alarmed by this decision, which, if approved by the president, would pose an additional danger to the media profession, whose situation is already extremely fragile. The National Media Council’s formation threatens the integrity and freedom of the press in Somalia,” IMCoS said in a statement.
In a closing plea, the Independent Media Council of Somalia urged President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud not to sign the decree establishing the National Media Council. IMCoS emphasized the need to follow legal procedures and protect the independence of the press, warning of severe repercussions for media freedom if the Council proceeds as planned.
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