US seeks dialogue over Media Bill

The US Ambassador to Somalia has called for the Somali Government to engage with media unions and civil society to resolve concerns over the controversial Somalia Media Council and proposed Official Information Bill. A report on the allAfrica site notes that Richard Riley’s remarks come amid growing criticism from various groups, including the International Federation of Journalists and the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), regarding the potential impact of the proposed legislation on media freedom and access to information. ‘The United States stands firmly in support of a free and professional media and the principle that government and civil society should always engage in good faith to peacefully resolve differences of opinion,’ Riley said. While acknowledging the importance of enhancing transparency and access to information, NUSOJ has criticised the Bill for its flaws, which contrast with the principles of transparency and access to information, fundamental for democratic governance and trust between the government and its citizens. The US Embassy in Mogadishu has been actively supporting initiatives to strengthen Somali journalism and promote freedom of the press in the region.