The Somali Women Journalists’ Rights Association (SOWJRA) strongly condemns the arbitrary detention of journalist Ms. Suweys Gacayte, who was reportedly arrested in Garowe, Puntland, Somalia, on 2 July 2026 and transferred to Garowe Central Prison without a court warrant or due legal process.
Ms. Suweys Gacayte, a reporter with Suweys Media, is widely known for conducting street interviews in Garowe, the capital city of Puntland State of Somalia. Through her work, she provides ordinary citizens with a platform to share their concerns, experiences, and opinions. Journalism is a fundamental pillar of democracy and must never be criminalized.
SOWJRA is deeply concerned by reports that Ms. Gacayte has been detained without publicly disclosed charges, a court order, or a clear legal basis. Due process and the rule of law must be respected at all times, and any deprivation of liberty must comply with applicable legal procedures.
This detention is also contrary to the spirit and provisions of Puntland Media Law No. 004, including Article 3(1), which recognizes media freedom as inviolable and protected under the Constitution of Puntland.
SOWJRA joins journalists, media organizations, and human rights defenders in calling for the immediate respect of Ms. Gacayte’s legal rights. We urge the Puntland authorities to either promptly present any lawful charges before a competent court or release her without delay.
SOWJRA further calls on the Puntland authorities to uphold freedom of expression and media freedom, ensure the safety and protection of journalists, and create an enabling environment where media professionals can carry out their work without intimidation, harassment, or arbitrary detention.
We stand in solidarity with Ms. Suweys Gacayte, her family, and the wider journalism community in Puntland. SOWJRA reaffirms its commitment to defending press freedom and protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of women journalists in Somalia.
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