06/12/2025
Somalia’s justice system has undergone massive change. After decades of civil war and institutional collapse, communities relied on clan structures and religious leaders—systems that were often unaccountable and vulnerable to manipulation.
Since 2012, reforms have pushed for transparency and public trust. Court proceedings opened up, and media coverage expanded. Somali National TV began reporting on regional courts and military tribunals, sparking public interest and debate.
Today, platforms like TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and X have taken this even further. Livestreamed court cases now draw millions, turning judges, testimonies, and dramatic moments into viral content. Judge Shuute alone has gained over 1.8M followers on TikTok.
But this visibility comes with consequences.
The 2023 Mogadishu corruption trial went viral, increasing pressure on institutions. And in Galkayo, clips from a murder trial fueled outrage and protests—one of which tragically ended with a teenager killed by police.
Livestreaming is transforming justice into public spectacle, shaping narratives, fueling emotions, and influencing legal actors in real time.
How should Somalia balance transparency with fairness in the digital age?
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