His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud today issued a statement marking May 3rd, World Press Freedom Day.
The President said: “On this, World Press Freedom Day, I we recognise the men and women of the press who work tirelessly to inform the population, often at great risk to themselves. I particularly extended my gratitude to those members of the media who have lost their lives in the course of their work. They are the victims of the enemies of freedom and advancement and we should remember their sacrifice. Those who target the press fear the press because they know they have something to hide.”
The President continued: “A free press is a sign of a free society and that is why my government is doing everything it can to support media sector development, including new media legislation which we expect to be passed into law in the near future.”
The President concluded: “The press has a vital role to play in the development of Somalia. It can highlight the progress we are making and it can raise awareness of issues that require action: it can investigate wrongdoing as well as holding those in positions of authority accountable. These are tremendously important in a free society. Journalism is a profession that brings with it great responsibility. As we mark World Press Freedom Day, I call upon the journalists of Somalia to keep your standards high and continue your excellent work.’
