Yameen says ready to work with Nasheed, Solih for press freedom

Former President Abdulla Yameen on Wednesday said he is prepared to work with other former presidents in response to what opposition figures have described as authoritarian actions by the administration of President Mohamed Muizzu.

The remarks followed a call by former chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Fayyaz Ismail, urging opposition leaders to unite amid recent political developments.

Fayyaz made the appeal after two journalists from Adhadhu were jailed for allegedly violating a Criminal Court order connected to a documentary released by the outlet.

The documentary featured allegations made by a former employee of the President’s Office against President Muizzu.

Fayyaz called on opposition leaders to set aside political differences and organise nationwide protests against the government.

Responding to the call, Yameen said he was willing to work alongside former Presidents Mohamed Nasheed and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to defend press freedom in the Maldives.

Nasheed has also announced plans to participate in protests against the arrest of journalists.

Yameen’s comments come despite criticism directed at his own administration over its record on media freedom.

During Yameen’s presidency, several media organisations were shut down, journalists were detained, and some outlets considered aligned with the opposition were barred from accessing the President’s Office.