Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called for unwavering resolve in the defense of press freedom.
In the latest Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the Maldives is ranked 108th out of 180 countries. Nasheed noted that the country’s standing in the index continues to decline.
"Compelling the disclosure of sources and the use of the Media Control Commission to normalize intimidation has become commonplace. It is not right to waver in the resolve to defend press freedom," Nasheed wrote in a post on X.
The past year has seen government efforts to obstruct press freedom. Most notably, a legal framework has been established to suppress media outlets through the passage of legislation aimed at controlling the press and the creation of a Media Control Commission.
Furthermore, President Mohamed Muizzu personally contacted Hussain Fiyaz Moosa, the CEO of Adhadhu, issuing threats of severe action against him and journalists.
In addition to Adhadhu, several other Maldivian journalists received death threats over the past year. Social media campaigns, orchestrated at the government's behest, have also been launched to defame, intimidate, and silence journalists. Individuals holding political positions within the administration are involved in these campaigns.
A year after the President’s initial threat to Fiyaz, police conducted a raid on the Adhadhu office on the night of April 27 this year. During the operation, authorities seized of electronic equipment.
