Statement by the Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD)
On the Arbitrary Detention of Sadia Moalim Ali in Mogadishu, Somalia
Date: April 15, 2026
The Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD) strongly condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the arbitrary detention of Ms. Sadia Moalim Ali, a tuktuk (rickshaw) driver and social activist, who was arrested in Mogadishu on 12 April.
According to credible information, Ms. Sadia Moalim Ali was apprehended by officers of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) due to her peaceful activism, including her engagement on social media and participation in non-violent protests. She was initially held at Hamar Jajab Police Station for two days before being transferred on 14 April to Mogadishu Central Prison, where she remains detained.
CSHRD is deeply concerned that her family has not been informed of any formal charges, and that her continued detention appears to be based solely on the peaceful exercise of her fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Reports indicating that detention orders were obtained to hold her for up to 90 days pending investigations further raise serious concerns regarding due process and the misuse of legal mechanisms to suppress dissent.
CSHRD considers her detention to be arbitrary and in clear violation of Somalia’s constitutional guarantees and international human rights obligations.
In light of the above, CSHRD:
• Demands the immediate and unconditional release of Ms. Sadia Moalim Ali;
• Calls on Somali authorities to respect and uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly;
• Urges the government to ensure due process, transparency, and access to legal representation in all detention cases;
• Calls on international partners and diplomatic missions to closely monitor this case and raise it with Somali authorities at the highest levels.
CSHRD stands in solidarity with Ms. Sadia Moalim Ali and all human rights defenders in Somalia who face intimidation, harassment, and unlawful detention for their legitimate and peaceful work.
The continued detention of individuals for exercising their basic rights undermines the rule of law and democratic space in Somalia. Immediate action is required to safeguard fundamental freedoms.
CSHRD Advocacy Team
Email: Advocacy@cshrds.org