PRESS RELEASE
Somali Media Association (SOMA) strongly condemns the raid and shutting down of Radio Galgaduud stations in Guriel , Galaduud region.
According to the director of Radio Galgaduud Abdifatah Hassan, “The shutdown has occurred on Monday night around 10:25 pm after forces from the Central regional authority of Ahlusunna group entered the station and confiscated the radio FM and other equipments.” The raid occurred on Monday.
Mr. Abdifatah Hassan told the media,” The reason behind the closure is unknown since the authority of Guriel districts has not made any contact with the management of Radio Galgaduud.”
The Director pointed out , ” Radio Galgaduud is independent station with centers at the districts of Guriel and Dhuusamareeb and the population residing at these districts widely listen to the news and programs of the station.
These incidents are clear violations of media freedom and reflect a desire by the Ahlusunna management of the Central regions of Somalia to intimidate the media and journalists.
The Ahlusunna Group authority through its forces has been violating the media freedom in total disregard of the Constitution for freedom of expression and the media laws. This obliges all levels of authorities to guarantee such values of free press and speech which are important for growth of healthy democracy.
SOMA always believes strong press is one of the pillars of rule of law abiding government. The forces of different administrations willfully intimidating, harassing and closing down outspoken media institutions, is a misguided conception of protecting national interests. SOMA condemns such act as an open display of dictatorship and fear for the public scrutiny relevant for building rule of law, democracy and good governance.
SOMA encourages Radio Galgaduud and other SOMA members to remain strong and independent in serving the public regardless of numerous intimidation and harassment by the security agents.
SOMA calls on the Ahlusunna management of the Central Regions to immediately return back the radio FM and other equipments its forces has taken and allow Radio Galgaduud to resume operations without any precondition.
SOMA appeals to the Federal Government and Ahlusunna management of the Central regions of Somalia to adhere to national and international obligations in observing freedom of press and expression as enshrined in the Constitution and other international human rights instruments to which Somalia is a part by virtue of its United Nations membership.
Radio Galgaduud is member of Somali Media Association (SOMA) which brings together 38 radio stations in Somalia.