MJA condemns alleged threats by Pres. Muizzu against Adhadhu Editor Fiyaz

Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) has condemned Adhadhu news’ Editor and prominent journalist Hussain Fiyaz being allegedly threated by the President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu via a phone call.

MJA, via a statement on Sunday, said they have received complaint regarding an incident where President Muizzu is alleged to have called and threatened Fiyaz. According to MJA, Adhadhu has also filed a case with Maldives Police Service on Saturday, seeking a formal investigation into the matter.

MJA emphasized that nature of allegations – calling to harass, threaten and intimidate journalists – by the individual holding the most powerful public post in the country, is extremely serious and alarming.

“This creates a distressing atmosphere for Fiyaz and other journalist working at Adhadhu news, severely restricting their constitutional right to press freedom and freedom of expression,” the statement read.

MJA added that any ethical concerns or complaints regarding contents reported by media should go through the proper instructional channels established under the Maldivian law to address them.

“We condemn all forms of threats, harassment and any attempts to intimidate journalists regarding their work,” MJA stressed.

The Association also called on Maldives Police Service to open an urgent investigation into the complaint that has been filed.

They also expressed concern over the failure by relevant authorities to take adequate action despite numerous previous threats that had been reported by various journalists from Adhahdhu.

MJA noted that their efforts to get a response from the President’s Office regarding the issue had gone unanswered.

The threats amid heightened political tensions after opposition MDP activists recently came under scrutiny for remarks made regarding President Muizzu’s son.

Former Attorney General, Aishath Azima Shakoor, who is representing the president’s family issued a statement during a press briefing held on Saturday that announced the First Couple had decided on a civil lawsuit against MDP and its Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail.