The arrest of Samsam Omar Ali marks a disturbing escalation in Somalia’s shrinking civic space and disregard for the rights of displaced citizens.

Development Diaries reports that Ali, who has been vocal in media appearances condemning the government’s forced evictions of residents from informal settlements, was recently arrested by government forces.

According to media reports, opposition figures have criticised this move, saying it is part of an ongoing campaign of intimidation against displaced civilians and critics of the government.

As someone who has already endured unimaginable loss, losing her family to Al-Shabaab attacks, her detention by state forces reflects a government increasingly intolerant of criticism.

Silencing a displaced woman for speaking against forced evictions exposes a troubling misuse of power, especially in a nation still struggling to rebuild its social and political foundations after decades of conflict.

This development raises urgent concerns about the Somali government’s handling of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Somalia hosts over 3.8 million IDPs, many of whom live in informal settlements under constant threat of eviction.

Rather than providing protection and social support, security forces have reportedly carried out demolitions and arrests, further marginalising vulnerable groups.

The arrest of a displaced mother who dared to speak up only deepens the fear among citizens who rely on freedom of expression to demand accountability.

President Hassan Mohamud should order Ali’s unconditional release and ensure an independent investigation into the conduct of security forces involved.

The government must also halt all unlawful evictions, uphold the constitutional right to free expression, and prioritise protection for displaced persons.

Somalia cannot claim progress while punishing those who call for justice and dignity.

Source: Shabelle Media

Photo source: Shabelle Media