Adhadhu files complaint after President’s Office ignores inquiry into press ban

Jul 9, 2026, 3:07 PM
President Muizzu at a press conference: He has failed to hold regular press briefings as previously promised — Photo: President's Office

President Muizzu at a press conference: He has failed to hold regular press briefings as previously promised — Photo: President's Office

Adhadhu has filed a formal complaint with the Citizens' Complaints Bureau today, following the President's Office's failure to respond to a written request seeking clarification on its decision to bar Adhadhu and its journalists from all official press conferences.

The President's Office made the decision on May 11, citing a Criminal Court order related to ongoing investigations into the documentary "Aisha" produced by this outlet, including related criminal proceedings. On that day, Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan was forcibly removed from a scheduled press conference.

Adhadhu officially requested a written explanation for the ban on May 18. Despite nearly two months passing since the request was submitted, the President's Office has yet to provide a response.

Adhadhu has requested the Citizens' Complaints Bureau to ensure a response is provided and to investigate the reasons behind the prolonged delay.

The Criminal Court "gag order" was issued in connection with charges filed against Adhadhu’s CEO, Hussain Fiyaz Moosa, and Editor, Hassan Mohamed. The order prohibits the dissemination of the documentary and bars any direct or indirect discussion about its contents. 

Comments

Read More

Latest News

MDP National Council members seek meeting on Rasmale' issue

Sixty-three MDP National Council members are calling for a formal meeting to determine the party's stance on the Rasmalé land project involving Eagle Hills. While leaders like Abdulla Shahid support the move, Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed warns that criticizing the UAE-based firm could damage diplomatic ties and the party's interests.

Nine men arrested following rape of woman and minors

Police have arrested nine Maldivian men following the alleged sexual assault of a 22-year-old woman and several minors in Huvadhu Atoll. A specialized investigative team has been dispatched to the island to handle the case. Authorities are treating the matter with high priority while protecting the identities of the victims.

"Keeping Muizzu in power is a big loss to the Maldivian people"

Former President Mohamed Nasheed criticized President Muizzu’s administration, claiming its policies have stalled development and caused an economic crisis with rising prices. He warned that the government's lack of direction and shifting foreign policy, particularly regarding India and Pakistan, pose a significant threat to national security.

"Expanding Maldives-Pakistan military ties risks provoking India"

Former President Mohamed Nasheed warned that expanding military ties with Pakistan risks provoking India and jeopardizing national security. He criticized President Muizzu’s policies for involving the Maldives in regional rivalries. The warning follows the signing of 20 MoUs between the two nations during Muizzu's recent visit to Pakistan.

Women's domestic work needs recognition: Fayyaz

MDP presidential candidate Fayyaz Ismail pledged to formally recognize the economic value of domestic work performed by women. He proposed that the state or husbands compensate women for childcare and household management, potentially through a pension system, to address gender inequality and ensure social stability.

India monitors Maldives-Pakistan ties as Muizzu signs 20 MoUs

India is closely monitoring the strengthening ties between the Maldives and Pakistan following President Muizzu’s state visit and the signing of 20 MoUs. New Delhi stated it will take necessary measures in response to these developments. This comes despite India recently providing $1.5 billion in financial support to the Maldives.

Yameen demands public referendum on Rasmale' deal

Former President Abdulla Yameen has called for a public referendum regarding President Muizzu’s plan to lease a portion of Rasmalé to Eagle Hills for 99 years. Yameen argues the President lacks the authority to unilaterally sell the nation's future and warns that the state will be unable to buy back the land once the lease expires.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox