Somalia Investigates Disappearance of Social Media Accounts Amid Allegations of Government Involvement
Somalia’s National Communications Authority (NCA) has launched an investigation into the recent disappearance of several Facebook accounts, including those belonging to journalists, government officials, and opposition figures. The incidents have sparked concerns over freedom of expression and accusations of government-led censorship.
The missing accounts are believed to belong to individuals critical of the current administration, with opposition groups alleging that the disappearances are part of a broader effort by the government to silence dissenting voices. In response to these claims, Somalia’s Information Minister, Abdirahman Yusuf, denied government involvement, stating that the issue affected both government officials and opposition figures.
“This is something related to some government officials and some people in the opposition,” Yusuf said in a statement. He assured the public that the incident was being thoroughly investigated and promised a transparent resolution.
The controversy has drawn attention from across Somalia’s political spectrum, with leaders from federal member states like Puntland condemning the alleged targeting of political opponents. Journalists, activists, and members of civil society have also expressed concern about the impact on free speech, given Facebook’s central role in Somalia’s digital landscape.
With an estimated 5 million users, Facebook is one of the most widely used social media platforms in Somalia, particularly among media personnel, civic rights groups, and the general public. The platform’s importance as a communication tool makes the issue even more sensitive, as many rely on it to share news and opinions freely.
Mustafa Sheikh, the Director General of Somalia’s National Communications Authority, confirmed that the government was aware of the situation and working to resolve it. “We are fully aware of the issue. It’s becoming widespread and has affected regional state presidents, journalists, and ministers. We are in talks with Meta on how to enhance regulations to prevent misuse,” Sheikh said.
The NCA is reportedly in discussions with Meta, the parent company of Facebook, to strengthen regulatory measures and ensure that the platform’s reporting mechanisms are not misused to silence critical voices. Sheikh emphasized that the NCA would use all available regulatory tools to safeguard Somalia’s national interests and protect public trust in social media platforms.
As the investigation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the government will address these concerns and whether it will lead to stronger protections for digital rights in the country. The outcome could have significant implications for Somalia’s media landscape, particularly in a time when social media has become a vital platform for political discourse and public engagement.
By Valary Makena
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