Sunday August 4, 2024
Some of the 19 social media influencers charged by the Somali Attorney General's Office for spreading clan-based insults and engaging in "bad behaviour" online. The defendants are set to appear before the Banadir Regional Court as part of a crackdown on social media misuse. (Photo courtesy of the Somali National Police)
Mogadishu (HOL) - The Banadir Regional Court sentenced seven social media influencers to six months imprisonment each on Sunday for spreading clan-based insults and "bad behaviour" online.
The convicted individuals are Siham Tahliil, Nashaad Nalka, Sadia Galmudug, Iftin Model, Anjal, and Farhia Zona. The court released two other girls.
In May 2024, Somali police arrested 21 social media influencers, both male and female, on several charges, including spreading clan-based insults, incitement, and promoting immoral practices online.
The issue of clan-based insults is susceptible in Somali society, with many conflicts rooted in tribal divisions. Many Somalis believe that using offensive language, including insults and threats, for monetary gain is unjustifiable. The Somali government has condemned such actions as immoral.