Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) has reported a significant disruption in its operations due to a freeze on its bank accounts, following a court order. On April 13, 2024, SJS was alerted by their local bank that its accounts were frozen in compliance with a directive from the Banadir Regional Court. This directive also called for an investigation into the financial transactions of the organization.
The court's decision, detailed in a letter dated April 9, 2024, and signed by Judge Shueyb Malin Adan, states that the SJS is not a registered organization. Furthermore, the letter instructs the Office of the Attorney General to probe the individuals associated with the SJS accounts, including Secretary General Abdalle Ahmed Mumin.
SJS, which did not receive the court letter directly but was informed through secondary means, has expressed strong objections to what it perceives as acts of sabotage and privacy breaches. SJS officials, including President Mohamed Ibrahim, have denounced the continued persecution and threats directed at its staff and management. Despite the lack of formal communication about any ongoing legal proceedings, SJS is prepared to respond through legal channels, with its lawyers on standby.
This judicial action comes shortly after SJS submitted a legal case against the Somali Government to the UN Human Rights Council, a decision on which is still pending. Amidst these challenges, SJS vows to continue its advocacy for press freedom and human rights in Somalia, stating its commitment to remain a steadfast advocate for truth and accountability.