Journalists are the mirror of the nation; release Shahzan and Leevan immediately: Shaaz
Ahmed Shaaz, the father of detained journalist Shahzan, has called for the immediate release of all arrested media personnel, asserting that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s lack of tolerance demonstrates an inability to govern effectively. Describing the forceful removal of Shahzan from a press conference as a shameful act, Shaaz emphasized that journalists serve as the nation's mirror and that the state must cease its hostility toward them. He further condemned the current administration, labeling it the most corrupt and oppressive government the country has seen to date.
Shahuzan's father, Ahmed Shaaz (Thajoobe). | Raajje MV
Describing journalists as the mirror of the nation, Ahmed Shaaz (Thajoobe) has called for the immediate release of his son, Mohamed Shahzan, and fellow journalist Leevan Ali Nasir.
He made these remarks while speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Fashaairu" program on Thursday.
Shaaz stated that, having served in the law enforcement sector for many years, he clearly understands that the law must be applied equally to everyone. He further emphasized that when a court order is issued, it must be enforced with complete impartiality.
Furthermore, Shaaz highlighted that it was a disgraceful scene to witness President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu summarily deciding during a press conference that journalist Shahzan had violated a court order, followed by the journalist's immediate removal from the premises. Shaaz remarked that an individual with such a lack of patience is unfit to lead a nation.
"To be honest, I was embarrassed by his behavior that day. From the very beginning, he passed judgment, declaring that I was guilty and had disobeyed orders. That is not a decision for him to make. Then, he ordered my removal, unable to show even a moment's restraint. Someone with so little patience is unfit to lead a nation. We truly believed that when Dr. Muizzu took office, he would act like a statesman—that he would bring significant development, appoint capable people, and form a strong cabinet. But that is not what happened. In our entire lives, we have never seen an administration sink this low, nor one so corrupt and oppressive. Some might claim I am only saying this because I was imprisoned."Shahzan's father, Ahmed Shaaz (Thajoobe)
Shaaz has called on the government to release the journalists immediately. Urging authorities to refrain from targeting the heads and eyes of reporters, Shaaz emphasized that journalists serve as the mirror of the nation.
Release Shahzan and Leevan immediately. At the same time, stop inflicting further harm on those working to defend journalists. Let the press do its job; stop targeting and harassing them. Journalists are the mirror of the nation. A person cannot see what is on their own back or behind them, but a journalist will point out the stain on that person's back. That is the vital work they are performing.Shahzan's father, Ahmed Shaaz (Thajoobe)
Shaaz further stated that imprisoning journalists for asking questions or publishing news is unacceptable, and called for their immediate release. He added that he is proud of Shahzan, describing him as a journalist who attends press conferences well-prepared and having conducted thorough research.
