Media Commission Orders Outlets to Comply with Criminal Court’s Gag-Order

The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has directed all media organisations to comply with a Criminal Court order banning the circulation and discussion of a documentary produced by Adhadhu.

In a circular issued to media outlets, the Commission said outlets must ensure their coverage adheres strictly to the court’s order, emphasising its role as the national media regulator.

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The Criminal Court order—applicable to both the public and the press—prohibits the circulation of the documentary and bars any direct or indirect discussion of its contents. It also restricts the sharing of any information related to individuals involved in the case, including litigants and the alleged victim.

Additionally, the order enforces confidentiality over all court-related materials, including documents, evidence and details of the proceedings, which are being conducted behind closed doors.The directive comes as charges of false accusation of unlawful sexual intercourse, or Qazf, have been filed against Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and managing editor Hassan Mohamed over the production and release of the documentary.