Unesco urges justice for Somali journalistBy RAY NALUYAGA in Nairobi | Wednesday, May 9  2012 at  12:30

Unesco’s Director General Irina Bokova has called on Somali authorities not to spare effort in finding the killers of journalist Farhan Abdulle.

The 27-year-old employee of Daljir Radio was last week killed by unidentified gunmen in Galkayo village, 750km north of Somali capital of Mogadishu.

The Unesco boss noted that Mr Abdulle was a “fervent defender of press freedom,” and fought for improved security for journalists.

“His tragic death, on the eve of World Press Freedom Day, deprives the people of Somalia  a voice that spoke out for their right to be informed and their right to freedom of expression,” she said.

She added that construction of a robust democracy was a complex task, especially in those countries emerging from conflicts.

Ms Bokova reiterated that press freedom played a vital role and journalists must be able to work without fearing for their lives.

“He was seriously wounded and died while medical staff at the town’s general hospital fought for his life,” said a statement by Unesco.

The killers, who reportedly used pistols, fled from the scene before police arrived.

Somalia continues to be one of the worst places in the world for journalists to operate.

So far, five journalists have been killed in Somalia this year.

The media is widely targeted by groups, particularly the fanatical Islamists who threaten, kidnap, kill and force many to flee the country.

Many media houses have been confiscated by the lawless groups and others forced to cease operations.