Press Statement Sean McCormack, Spokesman Washington, DC October 22, 2007
Somalia – Murder of Acting Chairman of Shabelle Media NetworkThe United States condemns the murder of Bashir Nur Gedi, acting Chairman of Shabelle Media Network on Friday, October 19 in Mogadishu. We offer our sympathy and condolences to Gedi’s family and colleagues.
Gedi’s murder marks the eighth murder of a member of the Somalia media in 2007. Such acts highlight the determination of violent extremists to silence the voice of free media and cannot be tolerated. We call on the Transitional Federal Government to ensure the safety and protection of a free and independent media in Somalia. A vibrant media will be an integral part of Somalia’s path to elections in 2009 by facilitating the exchange of views necessary for lasting peace and stability.
2007/903
Released on October 22, 2007
|