Mogadishu (Somali Magazine). On Tuesday, the National Attorney General’s Office reported 19 social media influencers to the Banadir Regional Court for spreading clan-based slurs and indulging in “bad behavior” online.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, the defendants are accused of instigating ethnic strife, disturbing security, spreading hatred, and making insults on social media, namely the TikTok app.
The bureau urged that the Banadir Regional Court begin the case hearing right now.
The Attorney General’s Office has issued a stern warning to persons who use social media for destructive actions that violate Islamic principles and Somali cultural standards. Last month, Somali police detained 21 social media influencers, both male and female, with two being freed due to sickness.
Many Somalis feel that spreading clan and family insults for monetary gain is unacceptable. The Somali government condemns the use of harsh language, including insults and threats. Clannism is a highly sensitive topic in Somali society, with numerous conflicts stemming from tribal splits.
This week, inter-clan warfare in rural regions between Herale and Abudwaq towns in the Galgaduud region killed over 50 people and injured 60 more. The battle began as a disagreement over grazing pasture and watering wells.