In a pivotal election for the future of Somalia’s media landscape, the Somali Media Council has chosen a new chairman who has pledged to unite the council and fiercely advocate for press freedom and journalists’ rights across the nation.
The election, which saw a high voter turnout from council members, marked a significant transition for the council, which has been operating for nearly a year without a permanent leadership structure in place. The newly elected chairman, whose name has not been disclosed, emerged victorious after garnering a majority of votes from fellow council members.
In his acceptance speech, the chairman expressed gratitude to those who voted for him and extended an olive branch to those who did not, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration within the council. “I would like to thank all members, both those who voted for me and those who did not, for their participation in this democratic process,” he stated. “It is now time for us to come together and work as one team, setting aside any differences, to achieve our common goals.”
The chairman’s primary focus will be to fiercely advocate for press freedom and journalists’ rights in Somalia, a country where media professionals often face significant challenges and threats to their safety and independence. He acknowledged the council’s responsibility to protect and promote the rights of journalists, vowing to work tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard and their safety is guaranteed.
“Our top priority will be to actively seek and defend the rights of journalists and media professionals in Somalia,” he declared. “We will work as a united front to address any violations of press freedom and ensure that journalists can carry out their duties without fear of retaliation or harassment.”
The chairman also emphasized the importance of collaboration and cooperation among council members, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and expertise each member brings to the table. He called for a collective effort to tackle the council’s objectives, leveraging the strengths and knowledge of every individual member.
“Each and every one of us has a unique role to play in this council,” he stated. “We must work together, share our knowledge and experiences, and support one another in our endeavors to uphold the principles of free and responsible journalism.”
In addition to advocating for press freedom, the council under the new leadership will also focus on addressing the challenges faced by Somali journalists, such as lack of access to information, limited resources, and threats to their safety. The chairman pledged to work closely with relevant stakeholders, including government authorities and international organizations, to create a more enabling environment for journalists to operate freely and safely.
As the Somali Media Council embarks on this new chapter, the chairman’s message of unity, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to press freedom resonates strongly. With a renewed sense of purpose and leadership, the council is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Somalia’s media landscape and ensuring that the voices of journalists are protected and amplified.
