Friday March 7, 2025
Somali Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama chairs a Council of Ministers meeting in Mogadishu, where the cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to combating misinformation and cracking down on terrorist support networks.
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s Council of Ministers, led by Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama, reaffirmed a resolution on Thursday aimed at intensifying efforts to combat misinformation and disrupt networks that provide direct or indirect support to terrorist groups. The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to bolster national security and counter extremist narratives.
The resolution outlines stringent measures targeting individuals and entities found guilty of aiding terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab. It criminalizes providing housing, logistical support, or any form of assistance to extremists, with severe legal repercussions, including asset seizures and extended prison sentences.
The Somali government has increasingly focused on tackling misinformation, which it views as a tool used by extremist groups to manipulate public perception and undermine state-led counterterrorism efforts. In January 2025, the Cabinet approved new social media regulations to curb the spread of terrorist propaganda. The decision follows previous actions, including the August 2023 ban on platforms such as TikTok and Telegram, which authorities accused of facilitating the dissemination of extremist content.
Additionally, in June 2024, the government denounced what it described as disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting Somalia’s military gains against Al-Shabaab. Officials emphasized the importance of fact-based reporting and warned against narratives that misrepresent the state’s counterterrorism successes.
The Anti-Terrorism Law, passed in March 2023, grants security forces expanded powers to detain and prosecute those suspected of aiding militants. Complementing this, the Financial Sanctions Act targets funding networks, allowing authorities to freeze assets linked to terrorist groups.
The reaffirmation of the resolution aligns with Somalia’s ongoing military offensive against Al-Shabaab, which has regained momentum following the adoption of the National Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (2024-2027). This strategy is designed to dismantle extremist recruitment networks and strengthen public resilience against radicalization.
Authorities are urging civilians to remain vigilant and avoid areas known to harbour terrorist elements. Security officials emphasize that public cooperation is critical in identifying and reporting suspicious activities, particularly as Al-Shabaab continues to exploit community networks for resources and safe havens.
Key Decisions by the Council of Ministers
Commendation of Security Forces
The Council praised the Somali National Army and civilian forces for their relentless efforts in combating Khawarij militants. The ministers acknowledged the progress made in recent operations and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the armed forces in their mission to eradicate terrorism.
Crackdown on Misuse of Media and Forged Documents
The Council reminded citizens that the misuse or false representation of laws and regulations, including through social media and other platforms, is strictly prohibited. Individuals found guilty of such offenses will face severe legal consequences, including prosecution and harsh penalties under the law.
Penalties for Aiding Terrorist Activities
The Council emphasized that any citizen who allows their home, business premises, or vehicles to be used for criminal acts that threaten national security will be treated as an accomplice to terrorism. Such individuals will face severe punishment, including asset confiscation and nationalization, as outlined in Somalia’s anti-terrorism laws.
Warning to Civilians in Conflict Zones
The Somali National Army issued a stern warning to citizens living in areas where anti-terrorism operations are ongoing. Civilians are urged to avoid areas where Khawarij militants are active, as the SNA plans to escalate both air and ground operations to eliminate the threat. The government emphasized the importance of civilian safety while reaffirming its resolve to target terrorists who have caused immense harm to the Somali people.
Enhanced Airport Security Measures
In a bid to strengthen security at Aden Abdulle International Airport in Mogadishu, the Council announced a ban on weapons and combat vehicles within the airport’s perimeter. Further details on the implementation of this measure will be released by security agencies in the coming days.