Adhadhu journalists barred from President’s Office press briefings

The President's Office on Monday barred journalists from Adhadhu from attending press conferences held by President Mohamed Muizzu and cabinet ministers.

The decision follows criminal proceedings connected to the documentary “Aisha”, released by the outlet on March 28.

The Prosecutor General's Office has filed criminal defamation charges against Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Hassan Mohamed over the documentary.

Following a request by the Prosecutor General’s Office, the Criminal Court issued an injunction restricting circulation of the documentary and discussion related to the case.

Under the order:

The President’s Office decision follows an incident during a press conference in which Mohamed Shahuzan questioned President Muizzu regarding alleged call records involving a former employee of the President’s Office.

President Muizzu stated during the briefing that the question violated the court order. Security personnel later escorted Shahuzan from the venue.

In a statement issued on Monday night, the President’s Office said it had been informed of the ongoing criminal proceedings at the Criminal Court and a separate investigation by the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.

The President’s Office also stated that Shahuzan’s questions during the briefing constituted a breach of the court order.

According to the statement, the office exercised its authority under existing press briefing procedures to revoke Adhadhu’s access to future press conferences.

Shahuzan has also been summoned to appear before the Criminal Court at 1:00pm on Tuesday over alleged violation of the injunction.

Another Adhadhu journalist, Leevan Ali Naseer, has also been summoned to court in connection with a news report relating to the order.

In connection with the same case, Eesha Ashraf, a former employee of the President’s Office, was questioned by the Maldives Police Service.

Although police linked her to allegations under investigation, no charges have been filed against her.

Authorities have withheld the passports of Fiyaz, Hassan and Eesha.

Police also searched the Adhadhu office and seized property as part of the investigation after the press conference where President Muizzu was questioned about the documentary.