Somali Journalists Mark World Press Freedom Day
Mogadishu, 03 May, 2015-The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), the Somali Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the Relief International and Finish Foundation for Media and Development organized World Press Freedom day event, along with a a Seminar Freedom of Expression and Journalists’ Rights in State-building in Somalia in Mogadishu’s Jazeera hotel.
The event, which carries duo messages; Celebrations of World Press Freedom Day and opening of three day Seminar Freedom of Expression and Journalists’ Rights in State-building in Somalia , was attended by the Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, his deputy and the State Minister for the Ministry of Information, the Minister for Women and Human Rights, the Director of the Somali National Intelligence Agency (NISA), media and civil society representatives and journalists.
In respect of the World Press Freedom Day, Shabelle Media Network (Shabelle radio in Mogadishu) re-gain their freedom and allowed them to be on-air before the World Press Freedom Day event following request from the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) through the Ministry of Information.
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ)’s Secretary General, Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim congratulated in his opening remarks to the all Somali media, wherever they are on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day and as well congratulated Shabelle Radio and SKY FM for resuming operations. Mr. Ibrahim highlighted the dangers the Somali journalists face and presented NUSOJ report on 2014 attacks against the press and a message from the United Nations to the event.
Juha Rekola Juha Rekola, Vikes and Union of Journalists in Finland indicated the importance of freedom of expression. “It is encouraging to try to make understanding that there is no democracy without freedom of expression, there is no freedom of expression without free media, and no free media for journalists at fear for their rights are violated”, he stated. “The country of Finland is celebrating their 250th anniversary of freedom of expression and we are still making it stronger”. He added.
The event participants vehemently condemned the vicious attacks against the press including the latest killing of Daud Ali Omar and his wife who were killed inside their home in Baidoa on Wednesday night by armed assailants and called for immediate end to the continued impunity against the media and respect to the press freedom.
Similar events was held in Kismayo, Garowe, Boosaaso, Nairobi and Baidhabo by the NUSOJ’s regional affiliates.