HRCM investigates imprisonment of Adhadhu journalists

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has announced that it is investigating the imprisonment of two journalists from the online news outlet "Adhadhu," Mohamed Shahuzan and Leevan Ali Naseer.

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has announced that it has met with and assessed the well-being of two journalists from Adhadhu news currently serving sentences for violating a Criminal Court order issued on May 10, 2026, as well as several individuals taken into custody by the Maldives Police Service during ongoing protests in Malé.

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) stated that, based on the observations made during these visits, it has decided to investigate matters that require further inquiry.

The Criminal Court has sentenced journalist Leevan to 10 days in prison over a news article published in Adhadhu. Meanwhile, Shahuzan has been sentenced to 15 days in prison and fined MVR 25,000 in connection with a case involving questioning President Muizzu.

The imprisonment of these two journalists has drawn widespread condemnation from local and international organizations, political parties, former presidents, senior political figures, and members of the general public. These groups have expressed deep concern and are calling for the immediate release of the journalists. Many have characterized the move as a severe assault on press freedom and freedom of expression by the current administration. Critics further argue that these actions are a deliberate attempt to intimidate the public.

As series of protests continue in Malé calling for the release of imprisoned journalists, several individuals have been arrested and remanded in custody following these demonstrations.