Report on the Court Verdict Involving Journalists Cabdiqaadir Maxamed Aw-Xasan and Yaasir Axmed Cabdilaahi

The Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA) has been closely monitoring the legal proceedings involving two journalists: Abdiqadir Mohamed Hassan and Yasir Ahmed Abdilahi.

Hargeisa Regional Court Ruling:

1. 1. Abdiqadir Mohamed Hassan was sentenced to six (6) months in prison. The prosecution has announced its intention to appeal the verdict.
   2. Yasir Ahmed Abdilahi was fully acquitted and released, as the court found no legal evidence to support the charges against him.

SOLJA Emphasizes the Following:

• • • Journalists must be subject to a fair legal process in accordance with the law and the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
    • Freedom of expression and press freedom must not be suppressed through baseless or politically motivated charges.
    • The unlawful detention of journalists damages Somaliland’s reputation and weakens international trust.

SOLJA urges judicial and security institutions to uphold press freedom and avoid actions that jeopardize the safety of journalists or restrict media independence. Press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy and a driver of societal progress.