Somali information ministry lauds the Passage of the Media Bill

Somali ministry for information has today welcomed the passage Media Bill by the Federal Parliament of Somalia saying the approved media bill will provide some much-needed protection for journalists.

Speaking to reporters in Mogadishu, information Mohamed Hayir Mareye said “We welcome the approval of media law by Federal parliament of Somalia is a milestone achievement for the Somalia media and journalists.”

The minister said that the media bill has been in the hands of the government for about nine years was finally endorsed by the federal parliament.

“The bill protects the media workers from unwarranted arrest and gives freedom that they could freely exercise their freedom.” He said.

Some analysts claim that the bill seriously damages the independence of the media and the right to freedom of expression in the country as it contains articles which force editors and journalist to disclose source of information if demanded by the state .

It also requires journalists to have a degree and pass an exam set by government media commission.

The Somali journalist’s reaction to the bill is mixed with some equating to the repressive law under former military rule while others are cautious not to comment before reading the final version of the proposed law.

The country is one of the most dangerous places in the world for media professionals and it’s not just criminal activity that’s the problem.