Former Presidents Mohamed Nasheed, Abdulla Yameen, and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih have decided to meet to discuss the Muizzu regime’s crackdown on press freedom and the imprisonment of journalists.
Despite their political differences, the three former leaders have agreed to convene as the government continues to infringe upon fundamental rights, including the freedom of the press and freedom of expression.
A source familiar with the matter told Adhadhu that efforts are underway to hold the meeting before the end of this week, potentially today, tomorrow or Saturday.
This will mark the first time Nasheed, Yameen, and Solih have met collectively. The meeting comes at a time when the current administration has imprisoned Adhadhu journalists Mohamed Shahzan and Leevan Ali Naseer.
Adhadhu understands that the three former presidents will also discuss the deprivation of constitutional rights, including the right to a fair trial, the right to a defence attorney, and other fundamental liberties currently being denied to Maldivian citizens.
The call for the three former presidents to unite in defence of journalism was made by Fayyaz Ismail, the former Chairperson of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). Following that, Yameen expressed his readiness to work together, while Solih confirmed his decision to join the meeting earlier today.
The Muizzu regime jailed Adhadhu journalist Shahzan after he questioned the President regarding allegations made by a former President’s Office employee concerning an extramarital affair.
Meanwhile, Adhadhu journalist Leevan was jailed for reporting on a gag order issued by Criminal Court Judge Muzammil Nasir, which banned the documentary "Aisha"—a video detailing allegations against Muizzu—and prohibited any direct or indirect discussion regarding the film.
