Somaliland authorities have arrested Abdimalik Muse Coldoon, a prominent journalist and social activist, in Berbera. While official charges have not been disclosed, the arrest follows Coldoon’s criticism of Somaliland’s reported involvement in discussions to resettle Palestinian refugees from Gaza.
In a social media post, Coldoon distanced himself from Somaliland’s stance, emphasizing solidarity with Palestinians and asserting that the minister involved does not represent the Somali people.
This incident occurs amid reports that the United States and Israel have approached African nations, including Somaliland, about hosting Palestinians displaced from Gaza. These proposals have faced widespread rejection and criticism. Sudan, for instance, declined the U.S. request, citing concerns over international law and regional security.
Similarly, Somalia and Somaliland officials have denied knowledge of such discussions, with the proposals being met with condemnation from various quarters.
Coldoon has a history of detentions linked to his outspoken views. In 2019, he was arrested and sentenced to three and a half years in prison on defamation charges related to his Facebook posts critical of the Somaliland government and a private school.
More recently, in January 2024, he was detained following comments on the Memorandum of Understanding between Somaliland and Ethiopia.
Rights advocates and opposition members have condemned Coldoon’s latest arrest, arguing that it infringes upon his constitutional right to free speech. They are calling for his immediate release.