President Farmaajo pays tribute to fallen journos, pledges freer environment

President Abdullahi Farmaajo has pledged his government’s support to journalists while acknowledging the very crucial role they have played in Somalia’s reconstruction process despite risks.

Speaking during a meeting with journalists in his office Sunday, President Farmaajo called on journalists to remain steadfast in their work in pursuing the truth and holding government accountable.

Noting that journalists worked under difficult circumstances, Farmaajo paid tribute to journalists who have died at the course of duty and their families.

“It is actually true that you have gone through difficulties to deliver the truth to the public. You have obligations and responsibilities the same way the government has responsibilities therefore we shall cooperate to stabilize our country,” said President Farmaajo.

Media watchdogs rank Somalia among the most dangerous places for journalists in the world with 26 of them having been killed since 2012. Most of the perpetrators have almost always walked scot-free.

In a letter to the president mid last month, the Committee to Protect Journalists called on President Farmaajo to ensure justice for journalists killed over the years.

“We look forward to working with your administration to improve the climate for the media in Somalia, and in particular to ensure that those who murder journalists are brought to swift and fair justice,” the letter read in part.

The UN Support Mission in Somalia in a report last year pointed fingers at state organs and intelligence agencies for suppression of press freedom and interference of the working of journalists including arbitrary arrests.