The recent decision by the Somaliland Information minister to suspend the broadcasts of a Somali cable station based in London, UK appears to be somewhat draconian and goes against everything Somaliland stands for.
It is no secret that this particular station is not a friend of Somaliland. There is a lack of journalistic objectivity in their broadcasts, let us be frank, there is hardly any journalism displayed in the contents of its programming. But, this should not be a reason to instigate state censorship.
This station is not the BBC, CNN, France 24, Al-Arabiya, Al-Jazeera or any other prestigious network. It is a small, Somali speaking station, which began with good intentions, but, like all things Somali, eventually reverted to negativism, nepotism, tribalism, and has now completely lost all credibility, similar to the BBC Somali Service and VOA Somali Service.
I can understand why most Somalilanders despise this station. If Somalilanders want to watch the songs and comedies on the television station, then that is Ok, but they can always switch off the political content.
There are several alternatives to this television station both in Somaliland and abroad. There is a choice and no one is forcing the viewers to watch the station.
That is why it is somewhat dismaying to see the new Somaliland government engage in what appears to be state sanctioned censorship. I think a free press, whether we like or not, is a must in a democracy. Furthermore, the majority of Somalilanders are aware of this station's allegiances, and in any case, this particular station appeals to those who are known opponents of Somaliland. So what is else is new!
So let them broadcast, the people of Somalilander are already aware of the station's aims, and nothing can hinder or thwart Somaliland's march towards international recognition.
Source: American Chronicle
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