In a significant development in Somalia, four TikTok influencers have been arrested for allegedly insulting President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in a viral dance video. The video, which has since been deleted but continues to circulate widely on social media, features a group of young men dancing to a remix of a campaign song from the president’s 2022 election bid. However, the lyrics were altered to include derogatory language directed at the president. Somali police confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects are in custody and will face formal charges. This marks the first instance where a high-ranking political figure has been targeted in such a case, though social media influencers have previously been jailed for spreading clan-based insults or ‘immoral’ content. In August 2023, seven TikTokers were sentenced to six months in prison for inciting civil unrest and spreading immorality. Police spokesman Gen Abdifatah Aden issued a stern warning, emphasizing that any acts disrespecting national institutions or leaders would be met with strict legal consequences. The arrests have sparked a heated public debate over the role of social media in Somalia, particularly TikTok, which has been a platform for political commentary, satire, and entertainment. While some support the young men, others argue that freedom of expression should not extend to such levels, especially in a country with fragile governance. In 2023, the Somali government considered banning TikTok due to concerns over national security, misinformation, and the erosion of moral values. Although the ban was not implemented due to public opposition, officials warned of the platform’s increasing use for spreading harmful content, including extremist propaganda and defamatory material.