Arrest of Somali journalist Alinur Salad triggers widespread condemnation

The arrest of Alinur Salad, a prominent journalist and CEO of Dawan Media, has ignited a firestorm of criticism from former officials, journalist organizations, and social media users. Salad, detained on charges of immorality, false reporting, and insulting the armed forces, is being held at the Waberi Police Station in Mogadishu.

According to the General Command of the Benadir Regional Police, Salad, 38, was arrested by the Waaberi District station on accusations of misconduct, fabrication, and insulting the armed forces. "He is currently under police investigation and will be presented to the competent court," stated the report from the General Command.

The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) demanded Salad's immediate and unconditional release, calling the arrest a violation of press freedom and international human rights laws. According to SJS, Salad was arrested by Banadir Regional Police after a report criticized Somali security forces' use of khat, a stimulant plant affecting their readiness, and suggested President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's involvement in the khat trade.

Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary-General of the SJS, reported that Dawan Media staff had faced threats due to their critical coverage.

Salad's report highlighted significant issues impacting national security and governance. The criticism of President Mohamud's involvement in the khat trade added political sensitivity, making the arrest highly contentious.

Salad was a former communications director for former Prime Minister Khaire and worked for BBC Somali Service.

Reactions on social media have been swift. Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire called the arrest a blatant attempt to suppress the independent press. "This action represents a blatant attempt to suppress the independent press, silence the truth, and stifle public sentiment," he stated. He emphasized Salad's professionalism and urged for his prompt release.

Mowliid Haji Abdi, CEO of Horn Broadcasting Network, echoed these sentiments. "Journalists are critical in providing information to the public and holding those in power accountable," he said. 

In a press release, Dawan Media Group strongly condemned the actions of the Somali Police, stating, "This act clearly opposes freedom of speech, constructive criticism, and the independence of the Somali media. AliNuur Salaad is a respected and influential figure within the Somali community. He has worked with Somali government institutions and international organizations, contributing significantly to the promotion of his country's and people's reputation and image. Regrettably, he has been deliberately defamed and publicly shamed on social media without being presented in court. We urgently and unconditionally demand that AliNuur be immediately released and his freedom restored."

The Federation of Somali Journalists (FESOJ) also decried the arrest, emphasizing that Salad should be brought to justice through appropriate legal channels if accused. The broad condemnation reflects significant concerns over press freedom and the rights of journalists in Somalia. Former BBC journalist M.M. Dhoore and former strategic communications head Mohammed Hirmoge labelled the arrest as a direct attack on free media and an attempt to silence government critics.

Samira Gaid, a regional security analyst, highlighted the troubling trend of shrinking civic space in Somalia. "This incident should concern everyone who values democracy and human rights. This is an ominous sign of things to come," she stated. Security analyst Ahmed Gaashaan expressed similar concerns about the implications for civil liberties and freedom of speech, calling for Salad's swift release and due process.

Additional support came from politicians like Members of Parliament Abdullahi Farah Mire and Mursal M Khaliif, who condemned the arrest as an affront to democratic principles and press freedom and criticized the government for using autocratic tactics to silence dissent.