Muizzu: No citizen shall comment on nationwide injunction banning discussion of "Aisha" documentary

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that no citizen should comment on the Criminal Court's nationwide injunction, which prohibits any direct or indirect discussion regarding the "Aisha" documentary.

During a press conference at the President's Office on Monday, a RaajjeTV journalist highlighted significant public concern regarding a court order that prohibited any direct or indirect discussion of the "Aisha" documentary across the Maldives. The journalist noted that many believe this restriction obstructs freedom of expression and signals a shift toward authoritarianism, subsequently asking for President Muizzu's stance on the matter.

In response to this question, President Muizzu stated that the court had issued an order prohibiting any direct or indirect discussion regarding the "Aisha" documentary, and emphasized that all Maldivian citizens are legally obligated to comply with that ruling. He further noted that within a system of separated powers, this remains a matter for the judiciary and is not an action taken by the government.

Furthermore, President Muizzu stated that the freedom of expression in this country is extensively broad. However, he emphasized that holding a press credential is not a license to infringe upon the reputation of citizens, nor is it a right afforded by virtue of being a Muslim. He asserted that no individual’s dignity should be violated and that no citizen should speak against a court order.

I do not believe there is any other country that enjoys greater freedom of expression than this nation. However, the reality is that this is a hundred percent Islamic country. Our Constitution is very clear on this. Therefore, this government will always uphold the rule of law. Every citizen of the Maldives must operate within the boundaries and limits defined by the Constitution. Freedom of expression does not permit actions prohibited by Islam, nor does it allow for acts that violate the Constitution. This is not a right granted to any party. Holding a journalism press pass is not a license to defame or infringe upon the reputation of citizens. I do not believe such a license exists for anyone. Being a Muslim does not grant a license to attack anyone's honor or dignity. That is my general response. Regarding the specific question, as it pertains to the [case] holder, I cannot comment on it directly. Furthermore, I believe no citizen should pass judgment on such matters.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu

While President Muizzu has asserted that no citizen should comment on the Criminal Court order—which imposes a nationwide ban on discussing the "Aisha" documentary either directly or indirectly—he personally determined that an *Adhadhu* journalist violated this order by asking a direct question about the film. Consequently, the journalist was expelled from a press conference in the presence of the Minister of Homeland Security.