Press Release
The Somaliland Human Rights Defenders warmly welcome the release of the only known political prisoner in Somaliland, traditional leader Suldaan Axmed Muuse Faarax—widely known as Suldaan Qabile—who had been detained since 23 July 2025 without a court warrant, on the direct orders of the Minister of Interior.
His release marks a step in the right direction and suggests that the government may finally be starting to listen to the voices of the Somaliland people, who have consistently called for justice, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for traditional leadership.
However, while this development is encouraging, we remain deeply concerned about ongoing violations of fundamental rights. We urge the government to immediately cease all forms of media intimidation, harassment of journalists, and repression of free expression. Disturbingly, just today, a journalist Mohamed Abdi Abdillahi known widely as ‘Andar’ was summoned by the Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Hargeisa over content broadcast by MM TV—a clear indication that media freedom remains under threat.
We call on President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi “Irro” and his administration to uphold democratic principles and protect the rights of all citizens, including journalists, civil society actors, and traditional leaders.
Only through accountability, open dialogue, and genuine respect for fundamental freedoms can Somaliland move toward a truly democratic and inclusive society.
For further information, please contact: hornwatch@hotmail.com
Suleiman Xuquuq Prominent Human Rights Defender
