MDP to file case against Sajida, Azima over child defamation

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has announced its decision to file a case against First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and lawyer Azima Shakoor for allegedly defaming a child.

MDP’s legal team made the announcement at a press conference held at the party office on Tuesday. The case will be submitted to the Family and Child Protection Department (FCPD) under the Maldives Police Service and the Family and Children’s Department under the Ministry of Gender.

Speaking at the press conference, lawyer Ahmed Mauroof stated that a child’s dignity was compromised due to statements made at a press briefing. However, he emphasised that the remarks made during an MDP demonstration did not refer to a specific child or disclose personal information.

Mauroof further stated:

He added that the incident was an attempt by President Mohamed Muizzu’s family to divert public attention from broader national issues.

Meanwhile, MDP activist Mariyam Zubair has been accused of making remarks about the president’s son. Sajidha Mohamed has decided to file a civil case against Mariyam Zubair for her statement alleging that vaping was banned in the Maldives due to the president’s son.

At a recent press conference, Azima Shakoor, speaking on behalf of Sajidha, disclosed the child’s name and age. Sajidha has denied the allegations against her son, stating that such actions by political rivals could negatively impact the child’s education and social well-being. She further claimed that the situation had compromised the child’s dignity and security.