Detention of Somali-British journalist Busharo Ali Mohamed faces further delays amidst growing concerns

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Detention of Somali-British journalist Busharo Ali Mohamed faces further delays amidst growing concerns

HARGEISA (HORN OBSERVER) - Somali-British journalist Busharo Ali Mohamed's detention saga continues as her 15th court appearance was abruptly postponed in Hargeisa.

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Somali-British journalist, Busharo Ali Mohamed remains in detention in Hargeisa. | Photo/ courtesy.

HARGEISA (HORN OBSERVER) - Somali-British journalist Busharo Ali Mohamed's detention saga continues as her 15th court appearance was abruptly postponed in Hargeisa.

The Saturday hearing, which marked another chapter in her legal battle, was deferred due to purported capacity issues that prevented her transfer from detainment to the courtroom, as reported by the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS).

The postponement has cast a cloud of uncertainty over Busharo Ali Mohamed's situation, with no rescheduled date provided for the court appearance. Her legal team and concerned family members have expressed growing unease about the evolving circumstances.

Since her initial detention on May 15, 2023, the court has repeatedly delayed the proceedings, prolonging her incarceration despite her deteriorating health conditions. The journalist's arrest stems from her critical journalistic work, which appears to have caught the attention of Somaliland authorities.

While the official charge against her pertains to spreading false information against the authorities, her legal representatives contend that her true offense lies in her outspoken criticism of the president. The case has raised concerns about the suppression of freedom of the press and the targeting of journalists who dare to question those in power.

Adding another layer of complexity, Ahmed Khalif, a member of the Somaliland parliament, recently made a startling claim. Khalif alleged that Mohamed Muse, the son of President Muse Bihi, had a direct hand in authorizing the journalist's detention. This revelation has further fueled speculation about the motives behind Busharo Ali Mohamed's prolonged confinement.

As the legal proceedings continue to unfold, the international community watches closely, spotlighting the importance of press freedom and the rights of journalists to carry out their critical work without fear of persecution.