Former President Mohamed Nasheed has declared that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will hold daily protests to advocate for the rights of journalists currently in detention.
A protest was held in Male' last night calling for the release of Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan, who had questioned President Mohamed Muizzu, and Leevan Ali Naseer, who reported on a court order banning discussion about the "Aisha" documentary.
The Criminal Court sentenced Leevan to 10 days and Shahzan to 15 days in prison on May 12 for contempt of court. Both journalists have since been transferred to Maafushi Prison.
Speaking at last night’s demonstration, Nasheed asserted that Shahzan was arrested because of a question. Nasheed noted that the journalist had sought clarification regarding allegations that the President had made numerous late-night phone calls to a female aide.
He stated that the government’s decision to arrest the journalist instead of providing an answer was unacceptable.
Nasheed argued that detaining individuals rather than answering questions would cause significant tremors to the Maldives' prosperity and the self-sufficiency of its citizens.
"They have arrested someone instead of answering that question. In our view, this will cause a major shock to the nation's wealth and the livelihoods of the Maldivian people. God willing, the Maldivian Democratic Party will stand up and protest this every single day," Nasheed said.
The protest was attended by journalists, family members of the detained reporters, and members of the MDP and the People’s National Front (PNF).
While some participants were arrested during the demonstration, allegations have surfaced that police obstructed and assaulted several journalists, photographers, and videographers covering the event.
The Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) expressed grave concern over the incident, stating that the police had deliberately obstructed journalists during the protest.
