HARGEISA — Fresh allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement have emerged against senior officials within Somaliland’s Ministry of Information after claims surfaced that funds allocated for local media coverage of the May 18 national celebrations were allegedly diverted before reaching many of the intended outlets.
Every year, Somaliland’s independent media sector — including television stations, websites, YouTube channels, and social media platforms — plays a central role in broadcasting the anniversary of Somaliland’s restored independence. This year’s 35th anniversary celebrations saw extensive live coverage, special reports, documentaries, and nationwide media campaigns highlighting the significance of May 18.
According to multiple media insiders, the Somaliland government had set aside a special budget intended to support media organizations that participated in covering the national event. However, several journalists and media owners now claim that much of the funding never reached the broader media community.
The accusations have particularly focused on the Director General of the Ministry of Information, Cabdisalaan “Ilka Case,” and the ministry’s Director of Public Relations, Guray Maydhax, who are alleged to have overseen the distribution process without transparency or accountability.
Media executives speaking anonymously described the issue as a “recurring annual scandal,” alleging that every year financial support promised to independent media outlets is either selectively distributed or disappears entirely without clear documentation.
“Media organizations invested their time, equipment, staff, and resources to ensure the success of the May 18 coverage,” one local media manager said. “But when the time comes for the promised support, only a small circle appears to benefit while the majority are left empty-handed.”
The controversy comes at a sensitive moment for Somaliland, as authorities sought to showcase this year’s May 18 celebrations as a symbol of political stability, national unity, and Somaliland’s growing international visibility.
Political observers and media analysts warn that unresolved allegations of corruption within the Ministry of Information could further damage trust between the government and the independent press. They argue that transparency is essential, particularly when public funds are involved in national events closely tied to Somaliland’s statehood narrative and international image.
Critics are now calling for a full audit and public disclosure of how the media budget was allocated, including which outlets received payments and the criteria used in the distribution process.
As of now, Somaliland’s Ministry of Information has not officially responded to the allegations, and no public statement has been issued addressing the claims of misappropriation.
The latest accusations add to a growing pattern of complaints that have repeatedly surfaced during previous May 18 commemorations, raising broader questions about financial accountability and governance within state institutions responsible for managing public funds linked to national celebrations.
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This report was compiled based on information and testimonies gathered from various local media outlets and journalists operating in Somaliland, many of whom raised concerns regarding the handling of funds allocated for media coverage during the May 18 celebrations.
