Court to hold hearings of Adhadhu journalists behind closed doors
The journalists summoned over alleged breaches of the court order are Leevan Ali Naseer and Mohamed Shahuzan.
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The Criminal Court has decided to conduct hearings involving two journalists from Adhadhu behind closed doors over alleged violations of a court order linked to the “Aisha” documentary case.
The proceedings relate to an injunction issued by the court on March 28 restricting discussion and circulation of the documentary, which contained allegations concerning President Mohamed Muizzu.
The case is also connected to criminal defamation charges filed against Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Hassan Mohamed.
The journalists summoned over alleged breaches of the court order are Leevan Ali Naseer and Mohamed Shahuzan.
According to the court summons:
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Leevan was ordered to appear at 11:00am on Tuesday in connection with a report relating to the issuance of the court order; and
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Shahuzan was ordered to appear at 1:00pm over remarks and questions directed at President Muizzu during a press conference at the President's Office.
An official from Dhauru confirmed that hearings involving both journalists would be conducted in camera and closed to the public and media.
Under the Criminal Court order:
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the documentary “Aisha” may not be circulated until a final ruling is issued;
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discussion of content contained in the documentary is prohibited directly or indirectly;
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disclosure of information relating to parties connected to the case or the alleged victim is prohibited; and
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court documents and information relating to the proceedings may not be published publicly.
In connection with the same investigation, Eesha Ashraf, a former employee of the President’s Office, was also questioned by the Maldives Police Service.
Although police linked her to allegations under investigation, no formal charges have been filed against her.
Authorities have withheld the passports of Fiyaz, Hassan and Eesha as part of the case.
