Mogadishu, 12 June 2025 — Armed officers from Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) today stormed the studio of Himilo Somali TV, an independent broadcaster based in Mogadishu, demanding the removal of critical content that exposed alleged abuses in the ongoing voter registration process.
The raid, which took place in the early hours of the morning, targeted a news report aired by the station involving a young man who was allegedly abducted from the street and forcibly enrolled to vote. The report claims that they took his photo without his consent.
During the raid, NISA officers specifically demanded that the station delete the recorded interview from its archives, and Himili TV staff described them as ‘heavily armed and in uniform.’ Himilo Somali TV journalist Yahya Amalow and director Mohamed Said Keytun, who were present at the studio at the time, confirmed to the Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA) that the officers issued threats and attempted to suppress the broadcast under duress.
“This was an act of censorship, intimidation, and blatant interference with the work of the media,” said Keytun. “They did not come with a court order — they came with guns.”
The incident adds to a growing list of threats and attacks against journalists in Mogadishu, particularly those reporting on governance, electoral processes, and human rights. The recent voter registration campaign has been mired in controversy, with multiple citizens claiming they were forced to register by security forces or local officials.
Maryan Seylac, Executive Director of SOMWA, condemned the raid and raised alarm over the increasing violations against independent media.
“This kind of intimidation is unacceptable and undermines the role of the press in promoting transparency and democratic accountability,” said Seylac. “I would like to take this opportunity to emphasise that the media can play a vital role in raising awareness and advocating for direct elections. The Independent Electoral Commission should seize this chance instead of violating the constitutional rights of the media and citizens.”
SOMWA urges Somali authorities to immediately investigate the actions of NISA officers involved in the raid, ensure the protection of journalists, and respect freedom of the press as enshrined in the Provisional Constitution of Somalia.
