The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has urged the Somali government to withdraw the Official Information Act (OIB) saying that these laws could affect the right to information.
According to the IFJ, this law is in serious violation of international standards, including the African Union model law on access to information as well as Somalia’s interim constitution.
“The Federal Government of Somalia should endeavor to carry out a comprehensive review to comply with the Good Regulatory Practices (GRPs) Bill,” the IFJ statement said.
“If the Official Information Bill is passed in its current form, it will significantly undermine freedom of information and transparency in Somalia, enabling government secrecy and potentially increasing corruption and abuse.” the act of power. The unclear legal provisions will hinder accountability and damage Somalia’s trust with international friends, which will hinder the development of good governance and economic stability,” said a statement from the IFJ.
IFJ Deputy Secretary General Tim Dawson said that the official information law as it stands represents a major threat to freedom of information and good governance in Somalia.
“We are asking the government of Somalia to immediately withdraw this law and revise it to bring it up to international standards. Protecting the right to information is important for maintaining the principles of democracy and developing the confidence of the Somali people and friends around the world. “Without these changes, Somalia is at risk of good governance and the implementation of democracy,” said Dawson.
The National Association of Somali Journalists, NUSOJ, in a statement, insisted that the bill could not be considered as an inclusive policy that undermines the basic values of democracy, and the effectiveness of the law.
