The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has called for a full investigation into President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's threatening phone call to Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa on March 14.
In a press release, the IFJ strongly condemned "any threats, harassment or attempts to intimidate journalists for their reporting, especially from senior elected officials."
"Law enforcement must conduct a thorough and immediate investigation into these allegations and urge the President’s Office to publicly clarify this situation," it added.
The IFJ noted that the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) and the Maldives Media Council (MMC) have requested the President's Office for further information, but have failed to receive a response.
Adhadhu has shared information of Muizzu's threat and other challenges faced by the outlet since his government came to power. The IFJ highlighted these concerns in its press release.
"In a letter sent to the IFJ on March 18, the outlet alleges that Muizzu government has launched a targeted campaign to diminish the news outlet, cutting funding and pressuring advertising partners to cease financial relationships with the news outlet," the IFJ stated.
The IFJ further underlined concerns from Adhadhu after the Muizzu government attempted to pressure the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Maldives Media Council (MMC) to rescind an investigative award for a documentary on Muizzu’s stepmother, Gnei Skeelan.
Adhadhu has formally filed a complaint against the President for threatening its CEO Fiyaz. However, no response has been received from the police so far.
