The recent decision by Somalia’s Parliament leadership to prohibit Members of Parliament (MPs) from holding press conferences within its headquarters and to ban independent media from interviewing lawmakers outside its HQ in Mogadishu has sparked significant concerns regarding freedom of speech and expression.
These actions are seen as a threat to the constitutional rights that protect open dialogue and the free exchange of information.
Critics argue that this move undermines democratic principles and transparency by limiting lawmakers’ ability to communicate with the public and the media’s ability to report on parliamentary activities.
Such restrictions could hinder accountability and weaken the public’s trust in government institutions.
This development calls for a closer examination of the balance between maintaining order within parliamentary proceedings and ensuring the protection of fundamental freedoms, such as free speech and a free press, which are essential for a healthy democracy.