Poet and Journalist Arrests Trigger Free-Speech Debate in Somaliland

Araweelo News Network | Associated Online Agencies.

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HARGEISA, Somaliland (ANN) — The arrest of Somali poet Fabaye Abwan Ismail Jiheeye and journalist Abdiqani Hussein Abokor, also known as Abdiqani Baylood, has sparked widespread discussion over freedom of expression and press freedom in Somaliland.
Abwan Ismail was reportedly arrested yesterday after a poem in which he addressed a dispute involving government forces and an incident at a location near the President’s residence attracted significant public attention.
The poet’s work has generated considerable debate on social media and among the public, with discussions focusing on the content of the poem and its references to the government’s handling of the dispute.
Journalist Abdiqani Baylood was also reportedly detained after publishing an interview with the poet through (Gahayga), in which the poem was presented or discussed.
The Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA) has condemned the journalist’s arrest, expressing concern over the detention and its implications for media freedom.
SOLJA Chairman Shaafici Mohamed Ibrahim also spoke publicly about the case, arguing that the arrest of the journalist was unlawful and calling for respect for journalists’ rights.
The arrests have intensified debate over the protection of freedom of expression and journalism in Somaliland, particularly when journalists and artists address politically sensitive issues.
Media and civil-society observers say that disputes involving journalists, poets and government authorities should be handled through lawful procedures and respect for fundamental rights.
The circumstances surrounding the arrests, including any formal charges against the two men, remain subject to further clarification.
Araweelo News Network | Associated Online Agencies