Mareeg.com-Responding to the Mogadishu court verdict on the trial of a woman and two
journalists, Government Spokesperson, Ridwaan Haji, today said:
We have an independent judiciary in Somalia and the government cannot and
must not be involved in the administration of justice. Our new, independent
judiciary, like many institutions in the new Somalia, is in its infancy. It will
take time to develop and evolve into an institution that delivers justice
effectively and inspires public confidence.
I reiterate the government’s commitment to a free press and freedom of
speech. It is essential that journalists are able to work freely and effectively but
they must also take their role in society seriously and demonstrate social
responsibility.
The police and judiciary carried out a thorough investigation which resulted
in yesterday’s sentences. Those sentenced have the right to appeal through
the Somali judiciary system if they believe justice has not been carried out
properly.
**ENDS**
**Ridwaan Haji**
