The Committee for Justice (CFJ) has documented the continued detention of journalist and media professional Mahmoud Al‑Salmi, a resident of Al‑Jufra, in connection with a post published on his personal Facebook account addressing matters of public concern.
According to information documented by CFJ, Al‑Salmi’s detention followed a complaint filed by a governmental body in Al‑Jufra Municipality. His family stated that the post did not mention any individual by name or direct accusations toward any specific person. The family further reported that Al‑Salmi was allegedly asked to acknowledge that the post had targeted the Mayor of the Municipality in exchange for his release, but that he denied this and maintained that his comments were limited to discussing public affairs.
The family also stated that the case is not criminal in nature and had previously been subject to administrative review and investigation, which, according to their account, concluded without substantiating the allegations against him. They argued that his continued detention therefore raises questions regarding its legal basis.
The Committee for Justice calls for the release of Mahmoud Al‑Salmi and for ensuring that legal procedures are not used to restrict freedom of opinion and expression or to target journalists because of their professional work or views. CFJ further calls for respect for fair trial guarantees and press freedom in accordance with international human rights standards.