The President's Office complaint against Adhadhu to the Maldives Media Council (MMC) over the Bailakka documentary and related news articles about the alleged monthly cash handouts to ruling party MPs on behalf of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is contrary to democratic norms, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid has said.

In a post on X on International Day of Democracy, the former Foreign Minister said it was an obstruction to press freedom.

"A new contrary to democratic norms on Democracy Day. This is an obstacle to a free press by a government out of step with democracy," Shahid wrote.

When contacted by Adhadhu, Shahid highlighted the importance of not deviating from the progress made in the journey towards democracy and upholding freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, human rights and the rule of law.

"A country develops and progresses by maintaining democratic rules. It needs democratic government of the people that operated in accordance with the rules of democracy," he said.

Meanwhile, former President Abdulla Yameen also criticised the government's response towards the documentary produced by Adhadhu.

He said PNC leaders were concerned and "trembling" because there is a truth behind it.

Information gathered by Adhadhu confirms that the alleged cash handouts have been ongoing for several months. Some MPs of the People's National Congress (PNC) have also confirmed this to Adhadhu.

Adhadhu has reported the alleged cash handouts every month since President Muizzu announced the decision to provide a monthly payment to PNC MPs during a meeting at his official residence Muleeaage on May 22.

The PNC leadership declined to comment on the Bailakka documentary while Dhuvaafaru MP Mohamed Ali, who was caught on camera carrying a black bag from the President's private residence to the PNC office, also did not respond to requests for comment.