Human rights concerns continue to grow following the detention of Sadia Moalim in Mogadishu. Rights advocates and civil society voices are calling for due process, humane treatment, and protection of freedom of expression, while demands increase for transparency regarding her legal status and prison conditions.

PRESS RELEASE

Commission Visits Mogadishu Central Prison and Raises Concerns Over the Detention of Sacdiya Macallin Cali

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA — May 13, 2026 — The Independent National Human Rights Commission of Somalia (INHRCS) has expressed concern regarding the continued detention and prison conditions of Sacdiya Macallin Cali, who has reportedly remained in Mogadishu Central Prison for more than a month without formal charges being filed against her.

According to the Commission, the visit was conducted on April 29, 2026, as part of its constitutional mandate to monitor, protect, and promote human rights in Somalia. During the visit, Commission representatives met with prison authorities, officials from the Somali Custodial Corps, Sacdiya herself, and her legal representative.

Concerns Over Due Process

The Commission referenced a statement issued by the Office of the Attorney General on May 6, 2026, indicating that Sacdiya is being investigated over allegations related to defamation and incitement.

However, the Commission raised concerns that:

• no formal charges have yet been filed,
• no trial date has been scheduled,
• and her legal process remains unclear.

The Commission stated that such delays may conflict with the principles of fair trial rights, due process, and judicial transparency guaranteed under Somali law and international human rights standards.

Allegations of Prison Mistreatment

According to the Commission’s findings, Sacdiya informed investigators that she had experienced:

• punishment inside the prison,
• intimidation,
• food shortages,
• overcrowding,
• poor sanitation,
• limited ventilation,
• and restrictions on family visits.

The Commission clarified that it has not independently verified these allegations, but called for a full, impartial, and independent investigation into the claims.

Human Rights and Legal Protections

The Independent National Human Rights Commission emphasized that Somalia’s Constitution, national laws, and international legal obligations all guarantee:

• freedom of expression,
• personal security,
• fair judicial proceedings,
• and humane treatment of detainees.

The Commission stressed that these protections apply to all individuals, including prisoners and detainees.

Statement by Dr. Maryam Qaasim

Dr. Maryam Qaasim, Chairperson of the Independent National Human Rights Commission, stated:

"Detention does not strip a person of their fundamental rights. Every detainee retains the right to dignity, humane treatment, medical care, family contact, and full legal protection under both national and international law.”

Call for Immediate Legal Clarity

The Commission urged relevant Somali authorities to:

• ensure full protection of Sacdiya’s legal and human rights,
• accelerate judicial procedures,
• and guarantee compliance with Somalia’s legal framework and international obligations.

The Commission also confirmed that it will continue monitoring Sacdiya’s case and the broader conditions of detainees in Somalia as part of its constitutional responsibilities.

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