Marsadak Calls for the Immediate Release of Journalist Al-Bakri

The Media Freedoms Observatory in Yemen strongly condemns the arrest of journalist Hossam Al-Bakri, a correspondent for Yemen Today TV channel, by forces in the western coastal region in the city of Mocha, southwest Yemen. The arrest came in response to a Facebook post in which he criticized a decision to ban sports activities during the month of Ramadan in the city of Hays, Hudiadah.

This arrest constitutes a blatant violation of press freedom and freedom of expression, which are guaranteed by the Yemeni constitution and international laws. Furthermore, the manner in which the arrest was carried out is unlawful and poses a serious threat to journalistic work in the country.

We call on the relevant authorities to immediately release journalist Hossam Al-Bakri and to ensure his safety. We also urge all parties to respect press freedom and to stop targeting journalists for their professional work or personal opinions.