The Somaliland Human Rights Commission (HRC) has expressed grave concerns over the extended detention of MP Mohamed Abiib at Mandera Prison, where he has been held for over two weeks without formal charges. Abiib was arrested on September 2 at Egal International Airport in Hargeisa upon his return from the United Arab Emirates. His arrest followed his public criticism of President Muse Bihi’s administration.
After inspecting the detention facility, the HRC determined that MP Abiib’s parliamentary immunity had not been respected. The Commission has called on the Somaliland government to adhere to legal standards by ensuring Abiib’s right to due process and his legal entitlements.
“The ongoing detention of MP Abiib without due legal procedures is alarming,” the Commission stated, underscoring the urgency of safeguarding his rights.
The HRC has demanded immediate action to ensure that Abiib receives fair treatment under the law. Despite this, the Somaliland Parliament, in a meeting held last Monday, voted overwhelmingly—43 out of 47 members present—to reject the charges against Abiib, which included treason, military defamation, and aiding the enemy. This vote marks the second attempt by Parliament to prevent the removal of Abiib’s immunity and the subsequent charges.
Abiib remains in custody despite Parliament’s efforts to dismiss the charges against him, which has sparked public outrage and raised concerns about the government’s adherence to due process and parliamentary immunity.
The Somaliland government has defended its actions, asserting that Abiib will face trial for treason. Deputy Interior Minister Abdillahi Hussein Mohamed stated that Abiib’s case had been pending for some time and accused the MP of participating in activities intended to destabilize Somaliland.
Abiib’s family continues to seek resolution of his detention, facing bureaucratic obstacles and limited access during their attempts to visit him, as reported by his brother, Abdulqadir Abiib. Although the HRC has reported no physical mistreatment of Abiib, unverified reports of abuse have heightened concerns about his well-being.
In response to the situation, the HRC has reiterated its demand for immediate action to uphold Abiib’s legal rights and ensure fair treatment