The Somali Women Journalists Organization (SWJO) strongly condemns the continued detention of journalist Suways Jama Mahmoud (“Suways Gacayte”), who has been held in Garowe for four days without any publicly disclosed legal charges and without due process in accordance with the law.
SWJO expresses deep concern over the safety and freedom of women journalists and reiterates that journalists have the right to carry out their professional duties without fear, intimidation, or arbitrary detention.
The organization also notes that, for nearly two years, Suways has been subjected to persistent threats and pressure related to her journalistic work. SWJO believes that this situation reflects a growing climate of intimidation targeting the media, particularly women working in journalism.
SWJO calls on the Puntland Government to:
- Immediately and unconditionally release Suways Jama Mahmoud if there are no lawful charges against her.
- Respect press freedom and uphold the constitutional rights of citizens.
- Investigate and prevent threats and intimidation against journalists and ensure that all those responsible for such violations are held accountable.
Finally, SWJO calls on human rights organizations, media associations, and civil society organizations to closely monitor Suways’ case and work collectively to safeguard freedom of expression and the safety of Somali journalists.
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