Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The detention of Alinur Salaad, Veteran Journalist and CEO of Dawan Media Group, has sparked widespread condemnation from researchers, scholars, and Somali elites, who describe his arrest as unlawful. Salaad has been held at Hamar Central Prison in Mogadishu since his arrest on July 22nd, raising concerns about freedom of expression in Somalia.

Abdirashid Hashi, former Director of the Heritage Institute and a prominent researcher, called for Salaad’s immediate release, emphasizing that if Salaad has committed a crime, he should be charged and given his day in court.

“He is not a flight risk and is a well-known figure, so he should be released on his own recognizance while awaiting trial,” Hashi said, highlighting that holding individuals in jail for extended periods without trial is unacceptable.

Hodan Ali, former Senior Advisor at the Mogadishu Municipality Mayor’s Office, criticized the government for its totalitarian approach, calling the arrest deeply troubling.

“If President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is genuinely concerned about the reputation and image of his government, he should hold his ministers and bureaucrats accountable for their actions,” she said, reminding the president of similar experiences under previous regimes.

Human rights and gender advocate, Mandeq Haji Elmi echoed these sentiments, asserting, “There is no free society without freedom of speech.”

Professor Afyare A. Elmi also condemned the arrest, stating, “Those who disagree should debate with him. It is a bad move for the government. I believe that the government should release the journalist.”

Samira Gaid, a regional security analyst, expressed deep alarm over the incident, describing it as a troubling sign of shrinking civic space in Somalia. “This action is clearly intended to intimidate journalists and critics, silence dissent, and stifle free speech,” she warned, noting that the Somali Police Force appears to be acting as an ethics enforcer while many citizens struggle to receive basic services.

The arrest of Salaad has generated public outrage, with many expressing their discontent on social media. Rights groups, both local and international, along with the Unions of Journalists, have condemned the arrest, labeling it an attack on freedom of expression and calling for Salaad’s immediate and unconditional release.

Despite these calls, Salaad remains detained, with a court ordering his remand for 45 days.

This incident has drawn attention to the broader issues of press freedom and human rights in Somalia, as the country grapples with balancing security and civil liberties.