Since yesterday, the Somali Media Association (SOMA) has been making efforts for the release of Hanad Abdi Farah, Director of Radio Voice of Mudug who have been detained on Friday morning January 12, 2018 at Galkacyo district, especially in the part of Galmudug State.
The Somali Media Association (SOMA) management has made immense efforts on how Director Hanad could get his freedom back.
“We have contacted many times with Ministers and other members of Galmudug authorities, however, unfortunately, it’s not yet been possible up to now for him to get back his freedom, and he is in detention for more than 48 hours without indication of any reason for his arrest.” Mohamed Abduwahab, SOMA Acting Secretary General said.
The Somali Media Association (SOMA) is calling the Galmudug administration, especially the authorities and the police of Galkacyo district to release Mr. Hanad Abdi Farah, Director of Radio Voice of Mudug from prison and restore his freedom back to him.
SOMA is very concerned over his being held in detention for the second day without declaring any charges against him.
Therefore, SOMA with all due respect for the administration and authorities of Galkacyo City of Galmudug State is requesting the Galkacyo district authorities of Galmudug State to ensure that his arrest and detention are in accordance with the country’s constitution.
SOMA is also encouraging all the leaders and journalist that are engaged in the efforts for the unconditional release of Mr. Hanad Abdi Farah, Director of Radio Voice of Mudug.
We are also appreciating SOMA members working in Galkacyo district for their additional efforts towards how Hanad Abdi Farah could be given his liberty back to him.
Radio Voice of Mudug is one of SOMA member media centers unified under the Somali Media Associaion (SOMA) that are operational in Galkacy district.
Conclusion
The Somali Media Association (SOMA) believes in freedom of expression and opinion peacefully, therefore, we call all the regional governments to respect the media centers and staff journalists that are working in the districts and cities under their control.
We suggest the resolution for all differences and misunderstanding regarding the media to be addressed in a peaceful way for the possibility of establishing a government based on patience and respect.
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SOMA is an association under which at least 40 media based in Puntland, Galmudug , Hirshabelle, Banadir Jubbaland and South West of Somalia are united