MJA Expresses Solidarity with Adhadhu Journalists Facing ‘Qazf’ Charges

The Maldives Journalists Association has expressed solidarity with journalists from Adhadhu as they face contempt proceedings and criminal charges, calling on the government to halt what it described as attacks on press freedom.

In a post shared on social media, the association said it stands with its Adhadhu colleagues who were brought before court on contempt charges and are due to face further criminal proceedings.

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The remarks come amid escalating legal action against the outlet over a controversial documentary, which has led to a Criminal Court gag order banning its circulation and prohibiting any discussion of its contents.

We stand together in solidarity with our @AdhadhuMV colleagues as they are dragged to court on contempt charges today and face criminal charges tomorrow.

The Muizzu regime must immediately stop these attacks on the free press.@ifjasiapacific @IFJGlobal pic.twitter.com/pCghMhVlKW— Maldives Journalists Association (@mjamaldives) May 12, 2026

The Prosecutor General’s Office has also filed charges of false accusation of unlawful sexual intercourse (Qazf) against Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Managing Editor Hassan Mohamed in connection with the documentary. After proceedings held yesterday, Adhadhu journalists Mohamed Shahzaan and Leevan Ali Nasir were remanded. 

During a press conference held on Monday, Shahzaan was removed from a press conference held by the president for allegedly violating the gag order. The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) had subsequently barred Adhadhu journalists from attending press conferences held at the president’s office.  

In its statement, the MJA urged the government of President Mohamed Muizzu to immediately cease actions it said undermine the free press.