Adhadhu journalist Leevan Ali Naseer was released from custody today after serving a 10-day prison sentence handed down by the Criminal Court for his reporting on a judicial order to halt the distribution of a controversial documentary. Leevan was sentenced for an article covering the court’s decision to stop the circulation of Aisha, a 30-minute documentary produced by Adhadhu. The film, released on March 28, includes allegations of sexual harassment and corruption leveled by a former employee of the President’s Office against President Muizzu.
Upon his release, Leevan was seen reuniting with his mother outside the Corrections facility in Hulhumale’. While he has completed the jail term, he remains obligated to pay a fine of MVR 26,800 to the state.
The sentencing of Leevan and fellow Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan has drawn significant attention both locally and internationally, raising concerns about press freedom in the Maldives. Both journalists were sentenced on May 11 in a closed-door hearing described by critics as rushed. They were reportedly given only two hours to secure legal representation and were denied full defense rights. Following the ruling, they were transferred to Maafushi Prison.
Leevan was later moved to solitary confinement in a high-security unit typically used for serious offenders. Reports emerged of unsanitary conditions, including rats and cockroaches, forcing him to sleep on the floor initially. Lawyers highlighted that Leevan suffers from a serious pre-existing skin condition, and prison authorities allegedly obstructed the delivery of his prescribed medication, raising health concerns.
The case has sparked protests in Male’, with police arresting several demonstrators, including Shahzan’s brother and aunt. Human Rights Watch has also called for the immediate release of the journalists and the dropping of charges, describing the developments as a worrying sign of declining media freedom in the country.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between independent media outlets and authorities in the Maldives, particularly following critical reporting on senior government figures.
