Somaliland: Maroodijeeh Regional Court Sentences Detained Female Journalist to One Year in Prison

The Maroodijeeh regional court in Somaliland has officially handed down a one-year prison sentence to the detained female journalist, Bushaaro Baanday. As guaranteed by the constitution, she has the option to secure her release through payment. The journalist’s mother expressed her gratitude to all those who played a role in achieving justice for her daughter.

In response to the court’s decision, Mohamud Haashi, the Chairman of the Kaah political association, asserted that the arrest of Bushaaro was conducted without legal basis, noting that the court did not find her guilty of the serious charges previously levied against her.

According to both the journalist’s parents and opposition parties, Bushaaro Baanday was apprehended on May 15th in the border city of Wajaale, where she reportedly experienced physical assault at the hands of security forces.

A few days ago, several lawmakers from Somaliland expressed concern over the prolonged detention of journalist Bushaaro Baanday in Hargeisa. They have urged the government to promptly release her and stressed the significance of upholding principles of justice.