Geneva – SAM Organization for Rights and Liberties stated that it had received an urgent complaint from journalist Ahmed Maher, in which he reported being subjected to a systematic media incitement campaign and serious threats to his life and personal safety. These acts constitute a blatant violation of national laws and international conventions that guarantee freedom of expression and protect journalists from being targeted due to their professional work.

In his complaint, journalist Ahmed Maher said that media outlets affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council have been leading a persistent campaign of defamation and threats against him through social media platforms, in an attempt to silence his voice and prevent him from continuing his journalistic work. He indicated that this campaign is a continuation of previous grave violations he endured, including arbitrary detention, torture, and enforced disappearance for over two and a half years, despite having been acquitted by a final court ruling.

SAM stressed that the violations faced by Ahmed Maher represent a flagrant breach of Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantees freedom of expression, as well as Article 13 of the Yemeni Constitution, which ensures press freedom and the right to access information. The organization noted that the recurrence of such practices reflects a repressive and hostile environment toward journalism, posing a direct threat to journalists’ lives and undermining the foundations of democracy and human rights.

SAM further pointed out that the repeated violations committed by individuals affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council against journalists and activists in southern Yemen represent a dangerous escalation targeting freedom of opinion and expression. These practices foster an environment of intimidation and systematic repression and stand in stark contradiction to Yemen's obligations under international agreements. They also reflect a complete absence of the rule of law in areas under the Council’s control.

The organization called on local authorities in Aden, particularly security agencies, to act immediately to protect journalist Ahmed Maher and ensure his safety, halt any targeting or incitement campaigns against him, and investigate those responsible for these violations. SAM also urged civil society organizations and human rights bodies to condemn these practices, intensify efforts to protect journalists in Yemen, and ensure that media platforms are not used as tools for intimidation and defamation.