The United States welcomes the Somali Supreme Court's March 17 decision overturning the conviction of Somali journalist Abdiasis Abdinur Ibrahim for interviewing a woman who alleged rape by Somali security forces. We are hopeful that this ruling, along with earlier statements of Somalia’s President and Prime Minister expressing concern over the original verdict, will help strengthen protection of freedom of expression in Somalia, as guaranteed by the provisional federal constitution. The United States continues to support the Government of Somalia as it develops and strengthens transparent and accountable institutions to protect human rights, including women's rights and freedom of expression, as part of its efforts to promote peace and democracy.
