Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan, who was removed from a press conference at the President's Office after questioning about allegations of sexual harassment against President Mohamed Muizzu by a female employee, has expressed concern over being denied adequate time to seek legal counsel.
Shahzan was summoned to court for allegedly violating a court order regarding the documentary "Aisha," produced by Adhadhu.
The court had previously issued a "gag order" prohibiting all citizens from circulating the documentary or discussing its contents, whether directly or indirectly.
Shahzan appeared in court at 1:00 pm today.
"I informed the court that I received the summons very late last night. I have not had sufficient time to consult with a legal professional regarding this case," Shahzan told Raajje TV journalists outside the courthouse.
"I stated that I wish to provide a full response to the allegations made against me. Therefore, I requested adequate time to prepare a defense and consult with lawyers. I asked for a period of 10 days."
However, the Criminal Court bench presiding over the case decided to grant Shahzan only two hours to appoint a lawyer.
Earlier today at 11:00 am, Adhadhu journalist Leevan Ali Nasir was also summoned to court. Leevan, who was summoned in connection with a news article, was similarly granted only two hours to appoint legal counsel.
Cases involving four individuals, including the management and journalists of Adhadhu, are currently before the court. As part of this investigation, the news outlet’s office has been raided and electronic devices seized
