Imprisoned journalist Leevan released following the expiration of his remand period

Adhadhu journalist Leevan Ali Nasir has been released from custody following the completion of a 10-day prison sentence for contempt of court.

He was released on Friday morning.

Upon his release from prison, Leevan stated that the imprisonment of journalists for their reporting or for asking questions serves as a clear indicator of the current state of press freedom. He added that, today, no one can be certain they will not be jailed for what they write.

Referring to the control bill passed after the current administration took office, Leevan stated that the legislation was specifically designed and implemented to silence dissent. However, he asserted that journalism cannot be suppressed and provided assurances that they would remain steadfast in their professional work.

Everyone knows exactly why we were thrown into these cells. It was for writing a report; for asking a question. What we are witnessing today is a regression to the past. Journalists are being imprisoned for their reporting and for seeking answers. This clearly demonstrates the current state of press freedom.

Adhadhu journalist Leevan Ali Nasir

Sharing his experience of incarceration, Leevan stated that Units 10 and 12 of Maafushi Prison are unfit for human habitation and described the conditions there as appalling.

Leevan noted that he spent his first four days in prison with Mohamed Shahuzan, a journalist from the same outlet who was detained following an incident involving questioning President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. He stated that he was subsequently separated and moved to Unit 10, where he spent the remainder of his time in solitary confinement.

Leevan stated that he was initially forced to sleep on a mat on the floor of the cell, and that a bed was only provided for him a day later.

Later, I was held in an extremely cramped cell. Initially, I was forced to sleep on the floor; I had to sleep right there on the ground on a simple mat. The space provided for a toilet was tiny, and that was also where I had to bathe. Whenever I showered, water would splash everywhere, even leaking outside the cell. It was only after about a day, following a meeting with the head of security, that a bed and other essentials were finally provided. The point is, for the first 24 hours after being moved to that cell, I lived in dire conditions. Furthermore, I have had to spend all this time in isolation. I have now spent five days in this cell.

Adhadhu journalist Leevan Ali Nasir

Furthermore, Leevan stated that the quality of food at Maafushi Prison is extremely poor. He noted that the meals provided are unfit for human consumption.

Leevan was sentenced to prison on May 12, 2026. On the same day, Shahuzan was also sentenced to 15 days in prison and ordered to pay a fine of MVR 25,000.