High Court accepts Fiyaz’s appeal after rejecting MJA’s challenge to gag order

The High Court has accepted the appeal filed by Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa to overturn the gag order issued by the Criminal Court in connection with the ‘Aisha’ documentary case.

Earlier on Sunday, the High Court rejected a similar appeal filed by the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA), ruling that the association did not have the legal standing to challenge the order. The decision was issued by High Court Registrar Maryam Hoorshidha.

Fiyaz’s legal team submitted an appeal the same day, which the High Court accepted.

The Criminal Court’s “order not to act in a pending case” prohibits the circulation of the documentary, and bars any direct or indirect reference to its contents. It also forbids the general public or any media outlet making any statement about the plaintiff, defendant or the victim in relation to the case.

The order was issued by Judge Muzammil Nasir while Fiyaz and Adhadhu editor Hassan Mohamed were charged under Section 612 of the Penal Code. Their trial began behind closed doors, with hearings held in secret.

The gag order and subsequent arrests have triggered widespread concern. MJA has said the order targets the entire public and violates fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and press freedom.

The case has also drawn strong criticism from civil society. Transparency Maldives condemned the imprisonment of Adhadhu journalists Leevan Ali Naseer and Mohamed Shahzan, calling it an attack on the foundations of democratic governance.

The controversy has intensified amid broader concerns about restrictions on media, secret hearings, and the use of criminal provisions in matters involving journalism.