Somalia bans Sahan research from operating in the country

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Government of Somalia said on Monday it has banned Sahan Research from operating in the country over national security reasons, Garowe Online reports.

In a statement, Somalia's Ministry of Internal Security said the organization will no longer work in the country and its all activities halted due to national security, stability and the unity of the country.

"The Ministry of Internal Security clarifies that Sahan Research was banned from all activities in Somalia, starting from 17th December 2018 over reasons regarding national security, stability, and Somalia unity," it said.

The ban came after Matt Bryden, the director of Sahan Research, a Somalia-focused think tank told the Washington Post that Somali government meddling the domestic affairs of its Federal member states.

Bryden is a Canadian analyst worked for a number of aid and political organizations in Somalia. He also served as the Coordinator for the Monitoring Group on Somalia and Eritrea (SEMG) from 2008-2012.

The Security Ministry said as an investigation underway it informed all people and agencies affiliated with Sahan Research to stop cooperation with it after involving in activities critical to Somalia's security.

Finally, the ministry has warned that stern and legal action will be taken against any individual or agency that fails to abide by the prohibition. The research organization did not immediately comment on the ban.

Somalia is currently in political crisis after Federal states suspended last September co-operation with Mogadishu, and said no relations until their grievances about insecurity, sharing of natural resources and the interference in their affairs are addressed.

GAROWE ONLINE