Journalists, Public Rally in Malé Demanding Release of Detained Reporters

A protest calling for the release of jailed journalists was held at the Artificial Beach area in Malé yesterday evening, drawing participation from media workers and some members of the public.

The rally began at around 4:00 p.m., with demonstrators gathering to demand the immediate release of detained Adhadhu journalists Mohamed Shahuzaan and Leevan Ali Nasir. In addition to journalists and members of the public, the parents and wife of Shahzaan also joined the rally.

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Protesters called on authorities to refrain from interfering in journalistic work and urged the government to uphold the rule of law and constitutional protections for press freedom.

After assembling at Artificial Beach, participants marched toward Rasfannu to conclude the event. However, a large contingent of Specialist Operations (SO) police officers blocked their route before they could reach the area.

According to media reports, protestors attempted to proceed via Ameenee Magu and Nikagas Magu to enter Majeedhee Magu, but were denied access. They then tried to exit through Danburuh Magu, where police again obstructed their movement.

Unable to reach Rasfannu, the demonstration concluded at Danburuh Magu.

The rally comes amid escalating tensions over the detention of Adhadhu journalists, with Shahuzaan sentenced to 15 days in custody and Leevan to 10 days over allegations linked to a court-issued gag order.

Participants also raised concerns over broader restrictions on the media, including the barring of Adhadhu journalists from official press briefings, as criticism grows over press freedom in the country.