Haatuf, The Government of Somaliland and the Legislature...

Sir,

Now that the matter between Haatuf Media Group and the Government of Somaliland has resumed its normal process through the proper   channels of the judiciary system. I feel that this appropriate moment to make a few comments on the subject.

I believe that both sides must share the blame. In fact there is a enough blame to spread around   the political typography of Somaliland.

There would be those who would immediately point out that the government's high-handed manner in which the Haatuf editor and other staff members were placed under arrest places all the   blame on   its shoulders. But, I beg to differ.

Although the Rayale   administration did not cover itself in glory on this occasion, neither did Haatuf demonstrate any responsible journalism. Journalism is not   about reporting on   the latest news or uncovering matters that some people would wish to see remain   covered. It is also about balance and clarification.

Whether Haatuf's recent allegations besmirch the reputation of the President and his wife   or proves their culpability, is a matter for the courts, but having followed Haatuf's   recent articles, pictures and editorials, not once did the news group name a credible source or seek a comment from the Presidency. This is tantamount to slander.

Even at the height of the Watergate affair, the Washington Post and their reporters were diligent enough to notify and seek comments from the White House. Now, I am not saying that this matter is equal to Watergate, but given Mr. Gabobe's reputation for integrity, I expected more from Haatuf. By seeking and informing the Presidency about the story they planned to run, Haatuf would have the moral ground in the event   the government preempted the story. Instead of good journalistic endeavor, we have a nothing more than allegations   and hearsay.

So, President Rayale has built a house in Borama or maybe even in Cairo, so what, there are houses in London, New York, Dubai, Nairobi, etc, all owned by someone. Did the stories in themselves   tell the general public something they   didn't know or already suspect? No. Were stories refuted or confirmed by the Presidency? No. Well, surely it stands to reason if you are going to accuse the incumbent of the highest office in Somaliland of corruption, have the   solid facts and sources ready and seek a response from the accused. Haatuf did neither, it was a case of print and be damn.

Nevertheless, the real culprit in this matter is the Somaliland House of Representatives. Sadly, our House of Representatives in filled with a few talented members and then there is the rest. It is their duty as elected members of the country's legislature to formulate and pass bills that will not only regulate the press but also hold the guilty parties accountable. Unfortunately, the House seems incapable of either, its only a case of new offices and talk, "Hadal badani haan ma buuxiyo". To these honorable members I say the following "either do your duty or vacate the premises".

Sincerely,

Ahmed Kheyre, London, UK

[ruraledcomm@yahoo.co.uk]

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