Somalia Banned the Activity of 1xBet

The authorities of Somalia have decided to ban the activities of the online betting platform 1xBet in the country. This decision is related to several economic and social problems caused by the platform’s operations. The ban was implemented not only at the national level but also at the regional level, particularly in Puntland.

Reasons for the Ban

The decision to block 1xBet was made after numerous reports of social and economic consequences of gambling. One of the main factors was the impact of gambling on the lives of local residents. There were cases in Somalia where soldiers sold or stole weapons from colleagues for online betting. Additionally, soldiers who lost money in gambling often committed thefts of mobile phones and even murders of civilians who refused to give up their phones.

The Minister of Information in the region, Mohamud Aidid Dirir, emphasized that gambling had become one of the causes of economic problems in the country, destroying families and undermining financial stability.

Economic and Social Problems

A major issue that led to the ban was capital flight. As a result of 1xBet’s operations, a significant portion of financial resources was leaving the country, which negatively affected the region’s economy. Additionally, many families faced relationship breakdowns as members spent money on betting, leading to debt and tension.

Local Residents’ Reaction

Some residents of Puntland have expressed dissatisfaction with the ban. For a portion of the population, 1xBet was one of the few accessible ways to earn money. This was especially true for the youth, who used the platform for betting as a means to improve their financial situation. Despite this, many still support the initiative, believing that in the long run, it will help eliminate the social and economic problems associated with gambling.

Government’s Response and Political Context

The ban was implemented at the Puntland level, where President Said Abdullahi Deni signed a decree prohibiting the use of 1xBet. He instructed local telecommunications companies such as Golis, Somtel, and Amtel to stop creating new accounts and close any existing accounts used for betting.

However, despite the decree, telecommunications companies have not yet fully complied with the directives. This has led to debates and criticism from local lawmakers. Some believe that the responsibility for regulating gambling should have rested with the Ministry of Telecommunications, not the President, raising concerns about the distribution of powers within the government.

Public and Political Debate

The ban on 1xBet has sparked active discussions in Puntland’s political landscape. Some lawmakers support the President’s decision, seeing it as a necessary step to address the growing problem of gambling, especially among young people. Others criticize the authorities’ actions, arguing that the decision to impose restrictions was hasty and that the role of the Ministry of Telecommunications was underestimated.

Outlook for the Region

The ban on 1xBet in Somalia and Puntland reflects the government’s efforts to combat the social and economic consequences of gambling. While some residents express dissatisfaction, many consider this step essential for restoring stability in the region. The question of who should regulate online betting remains open and requires further discussion at the state level.

Summary

The ban on 1xBet in Somalia is a controversial decision aimed at addressing the negative effects of gambling. While it has sparked debates among lawmakers and residents, many view it as a necessary step to restore economic and social stability in the region.