PRESS RELEASE
Somali Federal Government today marked International Human Rights day with a morning of songs, drama and speeches held at the Somali Central Prison in Mogadishu. The event was attended by the Minister of Justice, Solicitor General, MPs, senior members of the Armed Forces, representatives from civil society and members of the public.
Through a combination of song and dance the importance of Human Rights, access to education and health, and protection of individual rights were expressed.
Government officials, senior police and civil society representatives followed the morning’s performances with a tour of the Central Prison. The delegation watched a football game between two teams of prisoners followed by a tour of the prison kitchen and the newly refurbished part of the prison.
The Minister of Justice, Abdullahi Abyan Nur, addressing the audience, said: “This is a big day for Human Rights in the world and here in Somalia. As the Quran teaches us we must respect all fellow human beings. Human Rights is based on Islam and we must implement and protect the rights of individuals.
“The government is committed to justice and ensuring the values of human rights are protected at all times. We are moving in the right direction and we must not divert from this course.”
Addressing the event, Asli Ismail, founder of Women’s Education and Voicing Entrepreneurship (WEAVE), said: “Providing education to both women and men is very important. We will support the Ministry of Justice to ensure that justice is served whilst also providing education, health and rehabilitation to those imprisoned which is part of protecting Human Rights.”
ENDS
Ridwaan Haji
Government Spokesperson
Prime Minister’s Media Office
Mogadishu, Somalia
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