The Human Rights Center (HRC) has condemned strongly the decision by the government of Somaliland to arrest and prosecute a male activist and two female singers in Hargeisa.
Currently, the two female singers are in custody in Hargeisa Central Police Station while the activist is in Borama.
According to authorities, the three individuals were arrested and charged in court for committing anti-national activities.
The government of Somaliland arrested the two singers immediately after their performance in Mogadishu, Somalia.
On the other hand, the activist was arrested for content he posted on Facebook where he criticized the government heavily.
The singers were identified as Barwaaqo Mohamed Hashi and Hamda Yousuf Ibrahim while the activist’s identity was revealed as Abdiwahaab Osman Omar.
HRC said it was “startled” at the government’s decision to arrest the three. It said the arrest and subsequent prosecution was proof of the government’s “intolerance.”
According to HRC, the government continues proving its intolerance towards musicians. It also condemned the “restrictions” the government has imposed on musicians, artists, and activists.
