MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a democracy, the press serves as a vital bridge between the government and the public, ensuring transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information.
However, in Somalia, this essential relationship is increasingly being undermined by politicians who treat press conferences as one-way conversations—platforms to disseminate information, often a mix of truth and falsehoods, while refusing to engage with critical questions from journalists.
The recent press briefing by Information Minister Daud Aweys is a glaring example of this troubling trend, raising serious concerns about the state of governance and media freedom in the country.
Last week, Minister Aweys held a press conference to address several pressing issues, including a security alert at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport. While such briefings are ostensibly meant to inform the public and provide clarity, Aweys’ approach was anything but transparent.
He delivered a monologue, presenting a curated narrative that blended facts with questionable claims, and then abruptly shut down the event, refusing to take questions from journalists.
This tactic is not new; it has become a recurring pattern among Somali politicians who seem more interested in controlling the narrative than engaging in meaningful dialogue.
The implications of such behavior are deeply concerning. By denying journalists the opportunity to ask critical questions, politicians like Aweys are effectively stifling public discourse and evading accountability.
This one-way communication model creates an environment where misinformation can thrive, as there is no mechanism to challenge or verify the information being presented.
In a country like Somalia, where trust in government institutions is already fragile, this approach only deepens public skepticism and erodes confidence in leadership.
The security alert at Aden Adde Airport, which was the focal point of Aweys’ briefing, is a case in point. The airport is a critical infrastructure asset, and any security threat demands clear, honest communication from the government.
Instead, Aweys provided vague and contradictory information, leaving journalists and the public with more questions than answers. Was the threat credible? What measures were taken to address it? How does the government plan to prevent similar incidents in the future?
These are legitimate questions that deserve answers, yet Aweys’ refusal to engage with the press ensured that they remained unanswered. This pattern of behavior has not gone unnoticed.
Press watchdogs and media advocacy groups have repeatedly slammed such conduct, calling for an end to the practice of one-way press conferences.
Organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) have consistently highlighted the challenges faced by Somali journalists, including intimidation, harassment, and the lack of access to credible information. These groups have demanded that Somali politicians respect the role of the media and allow journalists to fulfill their duty to inform the public.
In a statement earlier this year, CPJ condemned the Somali government’s “systematic efforts to control the narrative and suppress dissent,” urging leaders to “stop treating press conferences as propaganda tools and start engaging in meaningful dialogue with the press.”
Similarly, RSF has called on Somali authorities to “guarantee the safety and independence of journalists” and to “create an environment where the media can operate freely and without fear of reprisal.”
Despite these calls, the situation on the ground remains dire. Somali journalists continue to face significant risks, including arbitrary arrests, threats, and even violence, simply for doing their jobs.
The government’s refusal to engage with the press only exacerbates these challenges, sending a clear message that critical voices are not welcome.
This pattern of behavior is not just an affront to journalists; it is a disservice to the Somali people. A free and independent press is essential for holding leaders accountable and ensuring that citizens have access to accurate information.
When politicians use press conferences as platforms for propaganda rather than dialogue, they undermine the very foundations of democracy. It is a tactic reminiscent of authoritarian regimes, where dissent is silenced, and the truth is obscured.
The international community, which has invested heavily in Somalia’s state-building efforts, should take note of this troubling trend. A government that refuses to engage with its own people and the press cannot claim to be democratic or transparent.
Donor countries and organizations must push Somali leaders to uphold the principles of accountability and freedom of expression, which are essential for lasting peace and stability.
For Somali journalists, the challenge is immense. Operating in a climate of fear and intimidation, they must continue to demand answers and hold power to account. This requires not only courage but also solidarity within the media community. Journalists must work together to amplify their voices and resist attempts to silence them.
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with Somali politicians to change their approach. Press conferences should be opportunities for dialogue, not monologues. Leaders like Daud Aweys must recognize that their role is to serve the public, not to manipulate them.
By embracing transparency and engaging with the press, they can begin to rebuild trust and demonstrate a genuine commitment to democracy.
The stakes are high. Somalia is at a critical juncture in its history, with ongoing security challenges, political instability, and economic uncertainty.
In such a context, the free flow of information is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Somali politicians must stop treating press conferences as one-way streets and start engaging in honest, open dialogue. The future of the country depends on it.
Abdirahman Jeylani Mohamed is a foreign policy journalist and communications specialist. X (Twitter): @JaylaaniJr
