Former President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, has strongly condemned what he described as the unlawful arrest and mistreatment of Kaamil Cabdi Macow, a prominent youth activist working on youth rights and democracy, who has been held in Mogadishu for several days in a manner he says is inconsistent with the law.

In his statement, Farmaajo said it is deeply alarming that a Somali citizen could be pressured and punished for his political views, including being removed from his job in an attempt to force him to join a particular political organisation.

He argued that such actions directly contravene the Provisional Constitution of Somalia, the Civil Service Law, international human rights agreements and principles, as well as the core values of Somali democracy.

The former president called on the government to ensure the immediate and lawful release of Kaamil Cabdi Macow and to restore his full rights, including his employment and personal reputation, which he said have been unjustly undermined.

He further urged the authorities to put an end to all forms of political intimidation and threats targeting citizens, especially young Somalis who peacefully stand up for their rights and for democratic values.

Farmaajo stressed the importance of security agencies and civil service institutions operating strictly within the confines of the law and not being used as tools for partisan political objectives. He warned that politicising state institutions in this way damages the image of the Somali state, undermines the credibility of government and erodes public trust.