The detention of journalist Mascuud Warsame, founder of the online media platform Xogbile, is another troubling example of the growing pressure facing independent journalists in Somalia.
Mascuud was detained in Mogadishu on June 30, 2026, by armed officers from Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). He remained in custody for 39 days before being released on August 8, 2026, without being charged or brought before a judge.
According to Mascuud’s account, he was repeatedly questioned about his social media activity and Xogbile’s critical reporting on political developments in Southwest State. He said he was held in difficult conditions, had very limited contact with his family, and suffered serious health problems during his detention.
He also said interrogators questioned him about reports criticizing the leadership of Southwest State, including coverage questioning the credibility of elections and examining the record of political leaders.
As Yusuf Abdi Shire, an independent Somali journalist and advocate for freedom of expression and independent media, I strongly condemn the detention of Mascuud Warsame.
Holding a journalist for more than a month without charge or access to a judge simply because of critical reporting is deeply alarming. Security and intelligence institutions should never be used to intimidate journalists or silence reporting that authorities consider unfavorable.
Mascuud’s case, alongside other recent arrests and harassment of journalists, highlights the increasingly difficult environment facing independent media in Somalia.
Journalists must be free to investigate, criticize public officials, and report on matters of public interest without fear of detention, intimidation, or retaliation.
Journalism is not a crime, and independent voices must be protected.
Yusuf Abdi Shire
Independent Somali Journalist
Advocate for Freedom of Expression and Independent Press
