MP Azaan sues ‘Dhauru’ editor Moosa Latheef for defamation

Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan has filed a defamation case against Dhauru editor Moosa Latheef and the paper’s parent company, Next Media Group.

Azaan, a former journalist who now represents the ruling PNC, confirmed the filing to Sun. Dhauru also reported the case. He submitted the claim on April 28.

The lawsuit concerns an article published by Dhauru under a headline referencing the police raid on Adhadhu and “Azaan’s experience.” Azaan argues that the headline and article damaged his reputation.

In his claim, Azaan has asked the court to declare that his reputation was harmed and to order the article deleted or amended. He is also seeking MVR 5,000 as compensation for defamation, along with MVR 28,670 to cover legal fees and registration costs.

Azaan has additionally requested an interim order to place the article in draft mode so it is not publicly accessible while the case is being investigated.

The lawsuit comes at a time when criminal charges have been filed against Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Managing Editor Hassan Mohamed over content alleging adultery involving President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

Two Adhadhu journalists were also jailed on Tuesday for allegedly violating a Criminal Court order while reporting on the case and for questioning the President at a press conference.