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New information minister pledges free media environment

Storyline:National News
Information minister Abdirahman Yarisow speaking after taking over office in Mogadishu Sunday. Photo: courtesy
Information minister Abdirahman Yarisow speaking after taking over office in Mogadishu Sunday. Photo: courtesy

The newly appointed minister of information and public awareness Abdirahman Omar Yarisow has pledged to create a more conducive working environment for the media.

Speaking after formally taking office in Mogadishu, Yarisow said his ministry will ensure press freedom and freedom of expression is upheld in Somalia.

“My top priority as Minister is to promote the freedom of expression in Somali, as enshrined in our provisional constitution Article 18 (1),” the minister said.

Somalia remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists to work in with dozens having been killed or maimed in the past. Goobjoog Television producer Hanad Guled was kidnapped Saturday and found alive in Afgooye, some 30 kilometres south of Mogadishu Sunday.

The minister commended his predecessor for his achievement during his tenure in office.

The ceremony held on Sunday, was attended by ministers and  other government officials and member of the Federal Parliament who oversaw the hand-over.