The Ministry of Information of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) expresses its concern on the six-year jail term handed to Abdifatah Jama Mire, Director of Horseed Media, who was also fined US$500.

The TFG shares with Puntland Administration the threat posed by the anti-state and anti-peace groups, and will work with Puntland in the elimination of these groups from the country.

Somalia Minister of Information, Abdirahman Omar Osman (Eng. Yarisow), talked to Puntland Information Minister, Mr. Abdihakim Ahmed Guled, on this matter. The ministers agreed on the importance of press freedom and the need to encourage independent journalists. Minister Eng. Yarisow asked Puntland authorities to facilitate the release of Horseed Media Director.

The policy of the TFG is to protect the freedom of speech and expression for the prosperity of the country. Such actions may hurt the country’s reputation.