Garowe, Puntland, July 24: The Media Association of Puntland (MAP) is concerned about the repeated summonses issued to freelance journalist Mohamud Nadiif Shire by the Puntland Intelligence and Security Agency (PISA). He was first summoned to the PISA office in Gardo and, more recently, called to appear at the PISA office in Bosaso. To date, no clear or official explanation has been provided regarding the reasons for these summonses.
Mr. Nadiif Shire is a respected journalist, widely known for his objective, fact-based reporting on public interest issues. His work reaches hundreds of thousands of people through social media platforms and plays an important role in informing the public and promoting transparency in Puntland.
Since 2022, Puntland has witnessed a positive and enabling environment for media professionals, characterized by minimal interference, no journalist arrests, and respect for press freedom. The current situation raises concerns about a possible erosion of these hard-won gains.
Moderating a MAP townhall October 2024 Mohamud Nadiif (left) and the Gardho Mayor – Abdikadir Saed (Right)
To safeguard his safety and ensure transparency, MAP has assigned its Vice Chairperson, Mohamed Dek, to accompany him during the upcoming visit to the PISA office in Bosaso.
MAP urges the Puntland authorities, including PISA, to provide a clear and timely explanation for the summonses and to refrain from any actions that may be perceived as intimidation or harassment of media professionals. PISA should prioritize allocating its resources to ensuring public safety and security, rather than targeting decent voices who serve the public interest.
We further urge all Puntland authorities to uphold the region’s legal and constitutional commitments to press freedom and the protection of journalists. Journalists play a vital role in Puntland’s democratic development by holding authorities accountable and keeping citizens informed. It is essential that they are allowed to carry out their duties free from undue pressure or fear.
MAP stands firmly in support of Mr. Nadiif Shire and all journalists committed to serving the public interest with integrity and professionalism.
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