Saturday's press conference cancelled following disruptions by Adhadhu news

Chief Government Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef has announced the cancellation of the President's Office press briefing scheduled for Saturday afternoon, citing disruptions caused by the news outlet 'Adhadhu'.

The latest session of the "Press with Spokesperson" series, held to engage with the media and address journalists' inquiries, was scheduled for 4:00 PM on Saturday at the PSM studio. Invitations for this session were extended via the President's Office official media group to journalists who have been screened in accordance with established procedures.

Providing further details on the matter, Shareef stated that 'Adhadhu' news outlet was removed from the official media group pending the outcome of an investigation into illegal activities allegedly carried out by the outlet at the President's Office approximately two months ago, as well as related criminal matters. He further noted that during this period, the outlet's journalists have not participated in any press conferences held by the President, cabinet ministers, or the spokesperson.

Shareef stated that approximately 20 journalists had officially registered to attend Saturday's press conference. He noted that although the news outlet 'Adhadhu'—which had access to the contact details through a previous group—submitted journalist Leevan's name, the President's Office did not accept the request. Shareef further alleged that shortly before the briefing was scheduled to begin, Leevan entered the PSM studio without authorization and subsequently refused to leave the premises.

As PSM is a distinct legal entity, entering such premises without authorization is not permitted under the law. This action caused a delay in starting the press conference, and since it was a live broadcast, the resulting time constraints would have disrupted the TV schedule. Therefore, I decided not to proceed with today's press conference. This action caused a delay in the start of the press conference. As time continued to lapse and the live broadcast schedule was being disrupted, I made the decision not to proceed with today's press conference.

Mohamed Hussain Shareef, government spokesperson.

The spokesperson expressed his deepest apologies to PSM and other media outlets for the loss of their time resulting from this incident.

Shareef further stated that, God willing, the press conference would soon be reconvened in a different setting with professional and responsible journalists. He emphasized that no opportunity would be given to distort facts or incite discord, adding that PSM would take all necessary measures in response to the incident.

Spokesperson Shareef emphasized that the primary objective of sharing this information immediately was to clarify the facts of the matter for the public before any misinformation could be disseminated.

It is noted that the Adhadhu journalist may only enter the PSM hall with prior authorization from the broadcaster. However, Shareef has not issued a statement regarding this matter.