Hargeisa (SD) – The owner of Astan Cable Abdimanan Yusuf, who had been detained in Hargeisa for some time, has now been released from prison.

Pictures showing the owner of Astan TV coming out of Hargeisa prison were posted on social media.

Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi apparently forgave the Astan TV owner, according to his relatives.

The Somaliland government has not yet commented on the release of Astan TV owner and what it means for the banned media house.

The Marodijeh Regional Court sentenced him to five years in prison last month, with fines and banning his media outlet.

The release of the Astan TV owner coincides with the occasion of International Human Rights Day celebrated on 10 December.