The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has launched an investigation into the treatment of two Adhadhu journalists currently serving prison sentences for contempt of court.
Journalists Mohamed Shahzan and Leevan Ali Naseer were sentenced to prison after the Criminal Court ruled they had violated an injunction and committed contempt of court in connection with the "Aisha" documentary.
In a social media post last night, the HRCM confirmed that commission members had met with the two journalists, as well as several individuals arrested during ongoing protests held in support of press freedom.
"Based on the concerns raised during these visits, the Commission has decided to investigate matters that require further inquiry," the post stated.
Leevan, who was convicted for reporting on the court order, and Shahzan, who was convicted following a question posed to President Mohamed Muizzu, were initially held in a cell at Maafushi Prison’s Unit 12. However, Leevan was abruptly moved to solitary confinement in Unit 10 last Friday.
Leevan is being held in a unit housing high-profile inmates involved in major homicide cases. The Maldives Correctional Service has not disclosed the reason for this transfer.
Leevan’s legal team stated on Sunday that he is being denied necessary medical care, a specialized lotion required for a pre-existing skin condition.
Furthermore, his lawyers expressed grave concern over the conditions of the solitary cell, describing it as unsanitary and infested with insects and rodents. They noted that Leevan had been forced to sleep on the floor.
Following media reports on these conditions, prison officers cleaned the cell and provided Leevan with a mattress. However, he has still not been granted access to purchase essential items using funds sent by his family.
Leevan is currently serving a 10-day prison sentence, while Shahzan was sentenced to 15 days. Both journalists were also ordered to pay fines. Their legal team has filed appeals against the convictions.
