Opposition calls journalist sentences attack on press freedom
Journalists Mohamed Shahuzan and Leevan Ali Nasir were sentenced to 15 days and 10 days in prison respectively.
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Opposition political leaders on Tuesday condemned the imprisonment of two journalists from Adhadhu after the Criminal Court found them in violation of a court order linked to a defamation case involving President Mohamed Muizzu.
Journalists Mohamed Shahuzan and Leevan Ali Nasir were sentenced to 15 days and 10 days in prison respectively.
The court order was issued at the request of the Prosecutor General’s Office after criminal slander charges were filed against Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Hassan Mohamed.
The order prohibited discussion, directly or indirectly, of matters connected to the documentary “Aisha” and the related court proceedings.
According to the court:
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Shahuzan violated the order by questioning President Muizzu during a press conference at the President's Office; and
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Leevan violated the order through a news report relating to the issuance of the injunction itself.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih described the incident as a “shameful chapter” and alleged executive interference in the judiciary.
“Such attacks on freedom and expression will not succeed,” Solih wrote on X.
Former President Abdulla Yameen called for the immediate release of the journalists.
“Journalists are performing a national duty. Let us learn to seek civil remedies for defamation rather than resorting to such measures to protect reputations,” Yameen said.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed also criticised the imprisonment while speaking at an event in Colombo.
Abdulla Shahid described the ruling as “a gloomy day for press freedom” and said journalists should not be jailed for carrying out their work.
Former Maldivian Democratic Party chairperson Fayyaz Ismail said the ruling represented “a significant step backward” and accused the government of using state institutions against critics and political opponents.
Former Vice President Mohamed Jameel Ahmed also criticised the ruling, stating that the case directly involved the interests of the President and questioning whether the verdict met standards of judicial impartiality.
“The actions of the Criminal Court have further eroded public confidence in the judicial system,” Jameel said.
The Criminal Court order remains in effect until a final ruling is delivered in the defamation case.
Under the order:
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the documentary “Aisha” may not be circulated;
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discussion of matters contained in the documentary is prohibited;
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discussion relating to the parties involved or the alleged victim is prohibited; and
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court documents and information relating to proceedings conducted in camera may not be disseminated publicly.
