The organizations highlighted the harassment of Somali journalist Mohamed Ibrahim Osman, known as Mohamed Bulbul, and the arrest of Suways Jama Mohamud, a journalist in Puntland, over her critical reporting. Following the May 2026 passage of a new constitution in Somalia, which extended the office terms of the President and Parliament, the political climate has become increasingly volatile. Peaceful protests have been met with state-sponsored violence, raising concerns about the state of human rights and press freedom in the country.
The SJS and KHRC called for Somali authorities to ensure a safe environment for journalists and freedom of expression, aligning with Somalia’s human rights obligations.
The organizations emphasized that the harassment of journalists like Mohamed Bulbul and the arrest of Suways Jama Mohamud are clear violations of these rights.
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) has also condemned the arbitrary arrest and continued detention of Suways Jama Mohamud by Puntland authorities.
NUSOJ described the case as a politically motivated incident, highlighting the broader trend of attacks on journalists in the region.
The situation in Somalia has long been characterized by a lack of stability and security, with internal conflicts and Al — Shabaab insurgent activity impacting the freedom of expression and press freedom. Journalists have often faced threats, harassment, and attacks in the line of their work.
The SJS and KHRC’s condemnation of the attacks on journalists comes as Somalia’s press freedom groups call for accountability and protection during a meeting with the diplomatic community.
The organizations have urged the international community to intensify pressure on the Somali government to ensure accountability for attacks against journalists and to protect media freedom. While the exact details of the incidents involving Mohamed Bulbul and Suways Jama Mohamud remain unclear, the organizations’statements serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in Somalia.
The continued harassment and detention of journalists are a serious threat to the country’s democratic process and the ability of the media to serve as a check on power.
As Somalia grapples with its political future, the international community must remain vigilant and support efforts to promote human rights and press freedom in the country.
The SJS, KHRC, and NUSOJ are calling for a renewed commitment to protecting journalists and ensuring that they can carry out their work without fear of reprisal.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Goolge News Space
