In democratic countries, freedom of press implies that all people should have the right to express their ideas in writing or in any other way of expression or creativity. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights ( UDHR )indicates that every one has the right to freedom of opinion and expression. This right includes freedom to hold useful opinions and impart information and ideas through the media.
As we know or aware of, the freedom of press is an integral part of the democratic system, and individual rights. It is a necessity of democratic society. It is one of the greatest rights of a man living in a civilized society. The society or the nationwhich doesnt grant this right cannot claim to be a civilized society or nation. Every citizen should have the to think, the right to know, the right to express freely what he thinks as an interest, and the right to give constructive criticism. That is the only way to ensure human advancement.
Today Somaliland has one thing as an asset: the freedom of press of the press and speech. The patriot journalists ( not all journalists) give the citizens information about every thing important which happens in any part of the country and the world. Through the private press, we become aware of the latest changes in the political, social economic and the other spheres of life. With out free private press and good newspaper with certain an avoidable limitations, our society would remain in dark.
Somaliland is a democratic government and have a constitution which was supported by the majority of Somaliland people when the land-mark referendum were held in Somaliland on May 31, 2001. The constitution protects the freedom of public demonstrations, expressions of opinion, press and the other media. Section 3 of article 32 of the national constitution says: "Press and other media are part of the fundamental freedoms of expression and are independent. All acts to subjugate them are prohibited..." (Somalilandforum.com).
If it is so, protecting these rights is very very important. But, unfortunately as reported by the local newspapers, the government of Somaliland had submitted last weak to the parlimenta news "Press Law" which if implemented may undermine the entire independence enjoyed by the local media, tne newspapers and all types of the press. This is not our main object. Our main object is to follow the contstitution, to enhance the freedom of press and expression, to maintain the democtaric institutions and multy-party system, and to make Somaliland one of the most peaceful countries in the region with growing economy, good policy and a balanced budget.
If the "Free Press" shows responsibility, professional culture and give factual reports based on reliable sources of information, our government should not have the right to ban or harm it. If it shows the said culture, its independence is guarnteed in the constitution, and it will deserve price. The pess should show a professional culture, and the government shuold protect its rights. The "free press" is an integral part of any
democratic system, and Somaliland government is a democratic government.
Ahmed Eid Adam,
ahmediid@hotmail.com
