Highlighting politicization of judiciary, MJA calls for an independent investigation into allegations against president

The Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) has called for an independent investigation into the allegations made against President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) made the call in a statement condemning the imprisonment of two journalists from the news outlet 'Adhadhu', following a court ruling that they were in contempt of the Criminal Court. The statement noted that the two journalists were jailed for reporting on allegations of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse of power involving President Mohamed Muizzu. It further emphasized that this incident serves as clear evidence of the significant erosion of democratic rights under the Muizzu administration.

The Criminal Court has sentenced 'Adhadhu' journalist Mohamed Shahuzan to 15 days in prison. His sentencing follows inquiries he made regarding allegations of late-night phone calls reportedly made by President Muizzu to a former employee of the President's Office.

Furthermore, 'Adhadhu' journalist Leevan Ali Nasir was sentenced to 10 days in prison over a news report regarding a gag order issued by the Criminal Court. The court order prohibited public discussion of the allegations and ongoing criminal defamation proceedings against 'Adhadhu' Chief Executive Officer Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Managing Editor Hassan Mohamed.

At the request of the Prosecutor General, the Criminal Court has issued a sweeping gag order prohibiting the public from speaking, directly or indirectly, about these allegations, charges, and the ongoing trial. The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) noted that this order obstructs journalists from reporting and deprives the public of their right to information. The association further stated that this restriction on freedom of expression and press freedom fails to meet the standards of legality, necessity, and proportionality mandated by the Constitution of the Maldives and international conventions.

Consequently, the organization noted in its statement that it is currently working to appeal the order in the relevant court.

The Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) has strongly condemned the coordinated efforts by the executive and judicial branches to silence the voice of independent journalism. The association further called upon all relevant authorities to immediately and unconditionally release journalists Leevan and Shahuzan.

The MJA further stated that the extent of the entanglement between a government that has exerted dominance over other branches of power and a deeply politicized judiciary raises serious questions. It also highlighted significant concerns that due process and the right to a fair and impartial trial cannot be guaranteed within such a politicized legal system.

Consequently, the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has called upon all relevant authorities to conduct a swift, independent, fair, impartial, and credible investigation into these allegations without delay.