The Somali police have apprehended four TikTokers for allegedly insulting President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in a dance video that circulated widely on social media.
The viral video features several young men dancing to a remix of a campaign song used during Mohamud's 2022 election campaign, but with the lyrics modified to include offensive remarks. The police have confirmed that the suspects are in custody and will be formally charged, although no further comments have been made regarding their arrest.
This incident marks a notable development in Somalia, where several influencers have previously been jailed for incitement or spreading content deemed immoral, but this is the first instance involving a high-ranking politician.
In August of last year, a court sentenced seven TikTokers to six months in prison for provoking civil unrest and spreading indecent material. The recent video, despite being taken down, continues to circulate widely across various platforms.
Police spokesman Gen Abdifatah Aden warned the public that disrespecting national leaders and institutions could lead to serious legal consequences.
The arrests have sparked renewed discussions about the role of social media in Somalia, particularly TikTok, which has faced scrutiny for its potential to incite unrest. Supporters of the TikTokers advocate for freedom of expression, while critics believe that certain limits are justified, especially given the country's ongoing struggles with governance.
TikTok has gained immense popularity in Somalia and among the diaspora, serving as a platform for political commentary, satire, and business. Despite government efforts to restrict the platform due to concerns over national security and misinformation, a proposed ban was met with significant public resistance in 2023.
The tense situation raises important questions regarding social media's influence in post-conflict societies and the balance between freedom of speech and national stability.
