IFJ backs Somalian union in deploring “chilling” killing of a journalist

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has today backed its affiliate, the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), in deploring the cold-blooded assassination of journalist Abdullahi Ali Hussein last 8 September in the capital, Mogadishu. The NUSOJ said in a statement that, according to a witness and the journalist’s family, on Tuesday 8 September evening Hussein was followed by two gunmen from the mosque after night prayer and was shot four times in the head and chest near his home in Dharkeneley district, southwest Mogadishu. The journalist died on the spot and killers escaped from the crime scene. Hussein was a well-known journalist who had previously received life-threatening messages and calls following critical reports on terrorism published by Waagacusub news website. He worked as this site’s English editor, as well as a sports reporter, the union informed. “We mourn the death of Abdullahi Ali Hussein and we share the grief of his family. This murder is a chilling reminder of the terrible life-threatening risk facing journalists in our country,” said NUSOJ Secretary General, Omar Faruk Osman. “We demand that there is an urgent and full investigation and that the killers are brought to justice.” The IFJ recognized the courage and engagement of the journalist in his professional duty while reporting delicate issues in Somalia. “Hussein has been reported as showing his commitment in denouncing cases of terrorism. He risked his life for public good,” said IFJ President, Jim Boumelha. “We stand by our union and our colleague’s family in these sad days and urge the authorities for a prompt resolution of the case”.

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