Somali Journalist Masud Warsame Freed After 40 Days in Detention

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Somali journalist Masud Warsame, the manager of Xogbile TV, was released from detention in Mogadishu on Sunday after spending 40 consecutive days in the custody of Federal Government security agencies.

Warsame was released without charges being brought against him during his detention, according to the statement, raising concerns among media rights advocates over the circumstances and legality of his arrest and prolonged detention.

His release followed sustained calls and advocacy by Somali media professionals and Safe Reporters of Somalia (SRS), a journalists’ rights organisation that had campaigned for his freedom.

Warsame is now expected to resume his journalism work following his release.

His detention had drawn concern from members of Somalia’s media community, who have repeatedly called on authorities to respect press freedom and ensure journalists are able to carry out their professional duties without arbitrary arrest or intimidation.

Following his release, journalists and media rights advocates renewed calls on the Federal Government to protect the safety and rights of media workers and uphold their role in providing the public with information.