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

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.

President's Office Citizens Complaints Bureau Adhadhu News

Comments

ICOM threatens action over President’s Office failure to respond to RTI requests

Jul 6

President’s Office has no record of Muizzu and Sajidha's unofficial visits

Jul 6

President’s Office ordered to disclose political appointee data within 14 days

Jul 5

Firzul appointed Managing Director of Hajj Corporation

Jul 1

Latest News

Next year’s budget is a “big scam”: MP Ameen

MP Ameen Faisal has condemned the government’s proposed 2025 budget as a "scam" designed to deceive the public and plunder national resources. He criticized the lack of progress on past projects despite massive state spending and accused the administration of failing to deliver on its promises to citizens.

MMA chief urges MIRA to audit resorts

MMA Governor Ahmed Munawar has urged the tax authority to audit resorts, noting that only 50 out of 150 currently pay income tax. He questioned the lack of reported profits and announced plans to tighten regulations next year to ensure more tourism-generated US dollars enter the national banking system.

Bill targets social media posts with fines up to MVR 500,000

A new bill submitted to the Maldives Parliament proposes fines up to MVR 500,000 for defamation on social media. The legislation targets both original posters and those who share defamatory content, including gestures and films. If a claim is proven false, courts must award damages between MVR 50,000 and MVR 500,000 to the plaintiff.

Alcohol can be sold in reclaimed islands under Rasmale' zone

The proposed Real Estate Bill allows for the sale and consumption of alcohol and pork on separately reclaimed islands within the Rasmale' zone. While these items remain strictly prohibited in residential and commercial areas, the new framework permits them on adjacent tourism islands to accommodate foreign residents and visitors.

Real Estate Bill grants Rasmale' Project special exemptions

The Real Estate Bill includes a provision exempting the Rasmalé project from competitive bidding and oversight by the ACC and Auditor General. This legal carve-out validates prior deals with UAE’s Eagle Hills, bypassing standard transparency rules. Future projects must meet strict investment criteria but lack the same total exemptions.

Man found dead in parked vehicle in Male'

A 41-year-old man was found dead inside a parked pickup truck in Malé on Saturday morning. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital after being discovered unresponsive. Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.

"Muizzu knows public would reject Rasmale' deal"

MDP leader Fayyaz Ismail claims President Muizzu is avoiding a public referendum on the Rasmalé land deal because he knows citizens would overwhelmingly reject it. Fayyaz argues the project lacks transparency and warns that future governments may be forced to alter the agreement if it proceeds without public consent.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox