Mowlid Omar Siyad, aka Bisle, arrested in the Somali region of Ethiopia

The rise of social networks and internet platforms has fundamentally changed the way young Somalis interact with each other and engage with broader society. The emergence of TikTok as a popular medium has enabled ordinary citizens to gain prominence in the public sphere with relative ease. Notably, Mawliid Omar Siyad, also known as Bisle Omar, is a Somali TikToker whose entertaining and thought-provoking content has amassed him a following of millions of fellow Somalis.
The Somali internet sensation was famous for his humorous take on the region’s typical troubles. He often glorified his clan and encouraged young people to learn from their rich history. In spite of the controversy that surround him, Bisle Omar was one of the most influential public personalities in the Somali region. In fact, thousands and thousands of his followers would watch his TikTok videos every day. This made him one of the most viewed celebrities in the Somali region and a prominent representative of the country’s youth.
His online fame has, however, come at a cost and with serious risks. According to reports, Bisle Omar was arrested and sent to Jigjiga to stand trial in the Somali regional state’s court. He was sentenced to five and a half years in prison. Mr. Omar’s lawyer and family members have complained about the injustice he is facing. I think these complaints require due consideration and official investigation. After all, Mr. Omar is a free man who deserves the support of his people. Irrespective of their political affiliation and differing views on clan conflicts, all Ethiopians should demand that due process of law be followed in Mr. Omar’s case.
The Bisle Omar incident has sparked a fiery debate over freedom of speech in the Somali region. In particular, his defenders claim that the regional state is not tolerant toward dissenting voices and suppresses public criticism of its political decisions. Some analysts believe that the Ethiopian Prime Minister should intervene in the case of Bisle Omar and other politically motivated prosecutions in the southern region. At the same time, his supporters highlight that the regional administration has a responsibility to protect social peace and uphold public order. In my opinion, both sides are correct in their position. However, in order to prevent unrest, it is vital to ensure that Mr. Omar is provided with all the legal protections.
I respectfully urge Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to carefully consider Bisle Omar’s case as well as other controversial detention in the Somali region. If possible, the Ethiopian Prime Minister should intervene when a prisoner’s rights have been violated and he is subject to an unfair trial. Ideally, the President should call for an independent review of controversial cases and encourage the authorities to grant clemency when appropriate. After all, the rule of law is a prerequisite for stability and social peace. It is also essential if Ethiopia wants to strengthen its institutions and guarantee fundamental rights to all population groups. In Bisle Omar’s case, as well as in the cases of ordinary citizens, the Ethiopians should do the right thing and exercise their legal powers responsibly.