Adhadhu goes to court against Control Commission order

Feb 2, 2026, 3:55 AM
Adhadhu goes to court against Control Commission order

A case has been filed in the Civil Court seeking to quash the order issued by the Media Control Commission to remove a political cartoon published by Adhadhu.

In its petition, Adhadhu said the commission lacks legal authority to issue such orders, while there is also no basis to declare that the cartoon violates Islam.

The commission ordered Adhadhu to stop its political cartoon segment and to temporarily remove the cartoon published on January 22.

The commission said a decision on the political cartoon will be taken after reviewing the documents and information submitted by parties relevant to the case.

But Adhadhu said the Control Law, which was approved last year, does not contain a provision to allow the commission to take action before completing the investigation.

The lawsuit states that the commission shall act to ensure freedom of the press and freedom of expression to the widest extent guaranteed by the Constitution and laws.

The cartoon depicted a man being pickpocketed during a prayer congregation. Adhadhu said the intention of the cartoon was to highlight the prevalence of theft and corruption in society.

Adhadhu said the commission's order intends to stop freedom of expression within the boundaries of the Constitution and laws.

In a statement, Adhadhu also said a case will be filed at the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) because commission members had abused their authority.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Priority should be sale of assets to generate immediate liquidity

Former President Mohamed Nasheed urged the Maldives to prioritize selling assets for immediate liquidity rather than long-term projects like the $20 billion Rasmalé development. He argued the UAE-backed waterfront deal will not provide the urgent cash flow needed to resolve the nation's current financial crisis.

Police seek charges against six men for assaulting officers

Maldives Police are seeking charges against six men for assaulting officers during a drug search in Maafushi. Five suspects remain in custody, while one was released by the court. Authorities have also appealed the release of a seventh individual involved in the August incident.

No tax concessions for UAE developer in Rasmale' project

The Maldives government awarded the $20 billion Rasmalé project to UAE developer Eagle Hills without tax concessions or exemptions. All business activities will follow national tax laws, with payments processed through local banks. The state expects over $11 billion in revenue from sales fees and commercial revenue sharing.

No details on size and value of land given to Dubai company

The Maldives government signed a $20 billion deal with Dubai’s Eagle Hills to develop a massive integrated zone in Rasmalé. While the project promises 54,000 jobs and housing, officials have withheld specific details regarding the land size, valuation, and lease terms. The area is expected to operate as a special economic township.

Rasmale' investor to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumale'

The Maldivian government has partnered with UAE-based Eagle Hills to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé using a contractor financing model. This agreement follows a massive $20 billion deal for the firm to develop Rasmalé. The project will feature luxury residences and a world-class marina without impacting existing housing plans.

AMFA concludes first Junior Lifeguard Program

The Australia Maldives Friendship Association successfully completed its first Junior Lifeguard Program pilot in Thulusdhoo and Fuvahmulah. The initiative trained youth in water safety and rescue skills to enhance maritime security. AMFA plans to expand the program across the Maldives by 2027 through partnerships with local councils.

Project to build international bowling arena in Hulhumale'

A private company has been awarded a MVR 20 million project to build the Maldives' first international-standard bowling arena in Hulhumale'. The two-story facility aims to host global competitions, though the direct award process lacks an official statement. This project is part of a broader plan to develop world-class sports infrastructure.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox