H.E. Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yarisow), Minister of Information, Culture & Tourism of Somalia speaking on the commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists said “We must all do what we can to end impunity for crimes against journalists in Somalia”. Minister Eng. Yarisow praised the efforts of the Somali media fraternities that jointly organized a big national event to highlight the issues faced Somali journalists and in particular, the importance to end impunity within the society.
Minister Eng. Yarisow underscored the importance of all of us taking full responsibility in order to ensure that those kill or injure Somali journalists to be brought to justice at all times. Minister Eng. Yarisow said “We all need to take full responsibility of what happens in our soil, in particular ensuring that all perpetrators to face justice. While we are building the foundations of functioning institutions in Somalia, nevertheless, we must investigate on all cases reported in order to hold accountable to those perpetrators that kill our brave journalists.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those journalists that was killed in Somalia. Today, is a day that we need to remember them and ensure that we don’t allow perpetrators to walk free without due process of justice. Our brave journalists deserve our full attention in order to save the lives of our journalists.” Eng. Yarisow said
The Federal Government of Somalia is committed to making the necessary reforms to justice system, so that every citizen will be able to receive justice and equality. The Ministry of Information is in discussion with the Attorney General and courts with a view to provide special lawyers for journalists so that the courts can prioritize crimes against journalists.
Eng. Yarisow concluded his remarks “Freedom of expression is a fundamental rights to every citizen as enshrined in chapter 18 of the provisional constitution of Somalia. Therefore, we must promote the freedom of expression so that our brave journalists will be able to provide accurate information to public without fear or threats.”
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