Wednesday February 12, 2025
Hargeisa (HOL) — Somaliland authorities have revoked Universal TV's broadcasting license, accusing the station of violating the self-declared republic's sovereignty. This move signals tighter controls over media in the region.
According to a Ministry of Information, Culture, and National Guidance statement, Universal TV is prohibited from operating within Somaliland, effective February 12, 2025.
"After reviewing Universal TV's blatant violation of Somaliland's sovereignty, we have revoked its media license," the ministry said.
In addition to shutting down the station's operations, the directive bars local broadcasters from collaborating with Universal TV, impacting networks such as Astaan TV, True Cable TV, and Hornsat.
Authorities have also prohibited businesses registered in Somaliland from advertising on Universal TV and warned of legal consequences for non-compliance.
"All commercial entities are instructed to stop placing advertisements on Universal TV," the statement read. "Failure to comply will result in legal action."
Universal TV was initially granted a license in October 2010, but Somaliland's government contends the broadcaster has violated agreements by airing content hostile to the republic's sovereignty.
A final warning was issued on June 27, 2020, advising the network to align with Somaliland's media regulations. Officials say Universal TV continued to defy the rules, leading to the revocation.
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains unrecognized internationally, has a history of strict media regulations. The government has previously taken action against news outlets and journalists critical of its policies, raising concerns about press freedoms.
The move against Universal TV is part of a broader pattern of media censorship, reflecting the government's efforts to control sovereignty and political affairs narratives.
Ahmed-Yasiin Sh. Ali Ayaanle, Somaliland's Minister of Information, defended the ban, saying it was necessary to safeguard the republic's sovereignty.
"We will not tolerate any violations of our sovereignty," Ayaanle stated. "The media must operate within legal frameworks that respect Somaliland's national identity."
Authorities have instructed media regulators and law enforcement agencies to ensure full compliance, signalling a tougher stance on independent reporting.
The revocation of Universal TV's license sends a clear message to journalists and broadcasters operating in Somaliland.
Media watchdogs warn that Somaliland's press freedoms are shrinking as authorities move to tighten restrictions on independent reporting.
Universal TV has yet to issue a statement on the ban. However, with current legal and financial constraints, the station's future in Somaliland remains uncertain.