Opposition leaders unite over press freedom, governance concerns

Former presidents Mohamed Nasheed, Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Friday signed an agreement to work together to hold the government accountable and called for the immediate release of jailed journalists.

The agreement followed a consultative meeting held in Malé amid ongoing concerns over legal action taken against journalists from Adhadhu.

The move comes after two journalists were sentenced to prison for allegedly violating a Criminal Court order restricting discussion of a documentary linked to allegations against President Mohamed Muizzu.

At a joint press conference following the meeting, the three former presidents said they would each appoint representative teams to formulate a strategy for future cooperation.

The leaders stated that their immediate demand was the unconditional release of jailed journalists and others detained while protesting in support of press freedom.

They also called for an end to what they described as unlawful legal action against members of the media.

In a joint statement, the three former presidents accused the current administration of infringing constitutional rights, influencing the judiciary, weakening the authority of the People’s Majlis and undermining the independence of state institutions.

The statement also raised concerns over restrictions on press freedom, the detention of journalists, economic conditions, government expenditure and allegations of corruption.

The former leaders further alleged that democratic principles established in the Maldives over several years were being weakened.

“We have reached a consensus to work collectively to bring the nation back onto the right path,” the statement said.

Nasheed, Yameen and Solih stated that they would continue their joint efforts until the concerns outlined in the agreement were addressed by the government.