President Mohamed Muizzu has claimed that he was unaware that several news outlets critical of the government were excluded from attending today's press conference.
Speaking at the press briefing held at the President's Office, Muizzu clarified that he does not personally determine which media organizations are invited or the protocols for such invitations. He added that the relevant department within the President's Office would investigate the matter and provide a response.
"I am not the person who issues invitations to journalists. I do not decide who should be invited or how it should be done. These are administrative matters. The relevant section of the President's Office will look into it and provide an answer. There is also a published policy regarding press conferences at the President's Office, and the office will proceed in accordance with that policy," Muizzu said.
Muizzu maintained that his administration maintains the closest relationship with the media. However, journalists present at today's briefing pointed out a lack of press freedom.
Invitations for today’s press conference—the first held by Muizzu in over two months—were sent individually to selected media outlets. The majority of those invited are pro-government, while those excluded are known for their critical coverage of the administration.
Among the media outlets not invited to today's press conference were Dhauru and Raajje TV. The President's Office has not disclosed the reasons behind the decision to exclude specific media organizations from the President's briefing.
Previously, the President's Office had only barred journalists from Adhadhu. The office has stated that Adhadhu and its reporters are prohibited from attending any press conferences organized by the President's Office. To date, the President's Office has not officially notified Adhadhu of this measure in writing.
Regarding the action taken against Adhadhu, the President's Office has stated that the "suspension" will remain in effect until the conclusion of a case currently before the Criminal Court involving the outlet's CEO, Hussain Fiyaz Moosa, and its Editor, Hassan Mohamed.
The case pertains to the "Aisha" documentary, which levels allegations against Muizzu regarding an extramarital affair with a President's Office employee. Muizzu has denied the claims made in the documentary.
