The Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA) has expressed strong concern over the decision issued by the Maroodi-Jeex Regional Appeal Court on August 9, 2025, which once again imposed a suspension on the media platforms Hadhwanaagnews.com, Hadhwanaagnews.ca, and Hadhwanaagtv.com.

This new suspension follows an earlier ruling by the Maroodi-Jeex Regional Court on February 8, 2025. These repeated restrictions come at a time when the affected media outlets have not yet fully recovered from prolonged bans previously imposed on them.

SOLJA reiterates that freedom of the press is a constitutional right guaranteed by the Somaliland Constitution and by international human rights conventions. Continuous restrictions on independent media outlets not only undermine freedom of expression but also weaken the credibility of the judiciary and the democratic system in Somaliland.

We urge the courts of Somaliland to uphold the constitutional rights of citizens and respect the fundamental principle of press freedom. Cases involving the media should be handled transparently and through legal procedures, rather than through broad restrictions that disrupt the operations of entire outlets.

Furthermore, SOLJA calls on judicial and government institutions to recognize and protect the essential role of independent media in promoting accountability, transparency, and democratic governance.

Finally, SOLJA reaffirms its commitment to defending press freedom, as well as safeguarding the rights and security of journalists and media institutions operating in Somaliland.

The court verdict 👉 AMAR XAYIRAAD KU CELIN WEBSITEKA HADHWANAAG

Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA)
📧 chairperson@soljaorg.com | 🌐 www.solja.org