The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has filed an appeal case at the High Court against a Criminal Court order prohibiting the circulation of the documentary "Aisha" and barring the public from discussing any content featured in the production.
The association expressed concern over the gag order, asserting that it obstructs the fundamental rights to freedom of the press and freedom of expression.
The order, issued by Criminal Court Judge Muzammil Nasir, comes as the court presides over Qazf charges (an Islamic criminal charge on false accusation of adultery or fornication) filed under Section 612 of the Penal Code against Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Editor Hassan Mohamed.
In connection with the ongoing case, the court has imposed a total ban on the circulation of the "Aisha" documentary within the community. Furthermore, it has prohibited any party from discussing the narratives contained in the video, whether directly or indirectly.
Citing the necessity of upholding community moral standards, the court has also decided to conduct the trial behind closed doors. The order states that disseminating any documents or information related to the case in any form would constitute a violation of the order.
MJA argued that since the Criminal Court’s order is directed at the entire community, it infringes upon the basic rights of both the general public and journalists. The association emphasized that a blanket ban on the dissemination of specific information is unacceptable in a democratic society. The MJA filed the appeal at the High Court, citing the matter as one of public interest.
The gag order has drawn widespread criticism, with legal experts questioning its validity. Legal professionals have noted that extending such an order to the entire population, beyond the parties involved in the case, conflicts with the right to freedom of expression guaranteed by the Constitution.
