Journalists union, CPJ condemn murder of journalist in Mogadishu, call for investigations

The National Union of Journalists, NUSOJ and the Committee to Protect Journalists, CPJ have condemned the brutal murder of Radio journalist Hinda Haju Mohamed in a car explosion yesterday in Mogadishu.

The two also called for speedy investigations into the matter noting that the killing once again demonstrated sustained efforts by militant groups to suppress the voice of the media in Somalia.

“On behalf of NUSOJ, I strongly condemn the bomb attack that killed our colleague Hinda and call for the government to launch urgent investigations.” Abdirahman Hassan Omar, Assistant Secretary General of NUSOJ said, “Hinda was a prominent journalist and we will miss her.”

CPJ also called on the government to ensure the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to book and the media environment in Somalia enhanced for the safety of journalists.

“The death of Hindia Haji Mohamed is a tragic reminder that Somalia is the world’sworst offender when it comes to the murder of journalists with impunity,” said CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Sue Valentine. “We urge the authorities to investigate her murder, bring the killers to justice, and work harder to create an environment in which journalists can report the news freely and in safety.”

Information minister Mohamed Abdi Mareye has pledged the governmen will ensure the killers of Hinda are held accountable for the crime. “Our security forces will dig deep into the matter and make sure all those involved are prosecuted,” said Mareye.

Hinda who was working for the national broadcaster, Radio Mogadishu and TV was killed after an explosive device planted on a car exploded. She was rushed to hospital but later succumbed to the injuries.

Hinda becomes the fourth journalist to be killed this year and up to another 25 killed in the last five years.

Another journalist, Mahad Mohamud Noor died this morning after long illness, the family said.