Nasheed says allegations against president are personal matters

Former President Mohamed Nasheed on Tuesday expressed concern over the arrest and prosecution of journalists in connection with a case involving allegations against President Mohamed Muizzu.

Speaking at a gathering in Colombo, Nasheed said the allegations concerning the President related to personal matters and should not be the focus of public intervention.

“These are not matters we necessarily need to interfere in; they are personal affairs. We have no interest in those specifics,” Nasheed said.

However, he criticised the government’s response to the issue, particularly the detention of journalists linked to the case.

“What concerns me is the arrest of journalists. I am concerned about the infringement on freedom of expression and the freedom of assembly,” he said.

The comments follow criminal defamation proceedings initiated against senior staff of Adhadhu over a documentary produced by the outlet.

Two journalists from the organisation were also jailed on Tuesday over alleged violations of a court order connected to the case.

Nasheed said freedoms relating to speech, assembly and political activity are directly linked to public welfare and economic progress.

According to Nasheed, societies benefit when individuals are able to express opinions and criticism openly.

“When criticism is suppressed, the wrong projects are initiated at the wrong time, in the wrong place, at the wrong price, and by the wrong people,” he said.

Nasheed, who is contesting for the chairmanship of the Maldivian Democratic Party, also spoke about political reforms he and former party chairperson Fayyaz Ismail are proposing.

He said he chose to speak in Colombo because of the city’s historical connection to Maldivian political and democratic developments.

Addressing President Muizzu directly, Nasheed said he would continue speaking out despite possible consequences.

“Whether I am handcuffed, shackled, or thrown into a cell, I will not stop speaking out,” he said.