High Court asked to overturn gag order linked to documentary

The Maldives Journalists Association has filed an appeal at the High Court challenging a Criminal Court order prohibiting discussion and dissemination of a documentary produced by Adhadhu.

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

The Criminal Court issued the order following a request by the Prosecutor General’s Office after criminal defamation charges were filed against Adhadhu Chief Executive Officer and Chief Editor Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Managing Editor Hassan Mohamed.

Under the court order, all citizens are prohibited from circulating the documentary, discussing its contents directly or indirectly, mentioning the parties involved in the case in connection with the documentary, and sharing court documents or details related to the proceedings, which are being conducted in camera.

In its appeal, the MJA also requested an interim order to suspend enforcement of the Criminal Court ruling until the High Court delivers a final decision.

The association further called on parties affected by the order to intervene in the case.

In its submission to the court, the MJA argued that the order obstructs journalists from reporting on the matter and deprives the public of access to information.

The association also stated that the Criminal Court had failed to consider constitutional protections relating to freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and the right to seek, receive and impart information.

According to the MJA, the two Supreme Court rulings cited in the Criminal Court order were intended to protect the presumption of innocence of accused persons and were limited in scope.

Following the issuance of the order, two Adhadhu journalists were found in contempt of court and detained.

Mohamed Shahuzaan, a journalist at Adhadhu and Vice President of the MJA, was accused of violating the order after questioning President Muizzu about the allegations during a press conference.

Another Adhadhu journalist, Leevan Ali Nasir, was found in violation for reporting that the court had issued the order.

In addition to the charges against Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Hassan Mohamed, police also questioned Isha Ashraf, a former employee of the President’s Office, in connection with the case.

Police have accused Isha of criminal defamation, although no formal charges have been filed against her.

Authorities have confiscated the passports of all three individuals.