Nasheed Raises Concerns Over Arrest of Journalists

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed concern over the arrest of journalists in the Maldives, stating that issues surrounding personal discussions about the President should not be the focus of public attention.

Nasheed made the remarks on Tuesday evening while speaking at a rally in Colombo, Sri Lanka, following the imprisonment of two journalists from Adhadhu.

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The journalists, Leevan Ali Naseer and Mohamed Shahuzan, were jailed on Tuesday in connection with an alleged violation of an order issued by the Criminal Court regarding ongoing charges against the heads of the media outlet.

Nasheed said the discussions circulating about the President were personal matters and not issues that should attract public interference. He stated that the more pressing concern was the arrest of journalists and what he described as violations of freedom of expression and freedom of assembly.

He also said freedom of expression and peaceful political activity should not be undermined in the Maldives, adding that criticism of a sitting government was directly linked to public welfare and accountability.

According to Nasheed, restricting criticism could contribute to poor decision-making, including projects being carried out at the wrong time, in the wrong place, at the wrong cost, and involving unsuitable parties, ultimately leading to public funds being wasted.

The Criminal Court sentenced Mohamed Shahuzan to 15 days in custody for questioning the President. Leevan Ali Naseer was sentenced to 10 days in custody for reporting on the gag order.