The Independent Media Council of Somalia strongly condemns the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) for legitimising the oppressive “Somali Media Council.”
This move sets a dangerous precedent and poses a significant threat to the already endangered media landscape in Somalia.
Journalists in Somalia have been subjected to targeted killings, forced closures of media outlets, and ongoing repression.
The establishment of an illegitimate media council only exacerbates the challenges faced by media professionals in the country.
The Independent Media Council of Somalia urgently calls upon IGAD to cease all efforts to legitimise the Somali Media Council.
The formation of this council blatantly violates the amended media law of 2020 and undermines the values of press freedom and the safety of Somali journalists.
IGAD must uphold these fundamental values and refrain from endorsing an entity that is in direct violation of Somali media laws.
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