Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan was released from prison today after completing a 15-day sentence given by the Criminal Court for contempt of court. Shahzan was welcomed by his family upon his release. His colleague Leevan Ali Nasir was released earlier after serving a 10-day sentence for the same charge.
The court sentenced both journalists in cases linked to a court order connected to criminal proceedings against senior members of Adhadhu. The cases relate to a documentary released by the outlet on March 28. Court hearings for both cases were held behind closed doors.
Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa said the journalists were sentenced without a chance to defend themselves. The High Court has accepted an appeal against the sentences, but no hearing dates have been set yet.
International groups including the International Federation of Journalists and the Committee to Protect Journalists have expressed concern over the jail terms and called for the release of the journalists. The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives also looked into the matter and visited the journalists while they were in detention.
Both journalists have now completed their full prison sentences as ordered by the court.
