Mogadishu,— Sadia Macalin Ali, widely known as Sadia Bajaaj, who remains held at Mogadishu Central Prison, has denied allegations of public incitement and questioned the legal basis of her continued detention.

In an interview with Raxanreeb Online, Sadia said she does not accept the accusation that she incited the public, arguing that there is no evidence showing that her remarks led to unrest, protests or the mobilisation of any group.

“I was someone whose rights had been denied, and I was simply asking how I could obtain those rights. Until now, the prosecution has not brought forward any valid accusation proving that I committed a crime. I honestly do not believe that I committed any offence,” she said.

Sadia said public incitement would require evidence of organised mobilisation, such as leading a group of people into a protest or public disorder, adding that no such incident had taken place in her case.

Asked why she remained in custody while other young Bajaj drivers arrested alongside her had reportedly been released, Sadia said she was still asking herself the same question.

She questioned why she alone had been transferred to Mogadishu Central Prison and brought before court, saying she believes her detention may be linked to individuals holding government positions and could be politically motivated.