Home Minister Defends Police Raid on Newspaper, Citing Upholding of Constitutional Rights

Homeland Minister Ali Ihusaan has asserted that the Maldives Police Service acted within its legal authority in investigating and raiding a news outlet over what he described as fabricated adultery allegations against President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. 

The Minister's statement comes a day after police conducted a search of local online newspaper ‘Adhadhu’ office, seizing various electronic and storage devices as part of their investigation.

The controversy stems from a documentary that contained serious accusations against the head of state. Speaking at a press conference the day before, President Muizzu vehemently denied all allegations and confirmed he would instruct the relevant authorities to pursue legal action against everyone involved in its production.

Minister Ihusaan framed the police action as a necessary measure to uphold the rule of law and protect constitutional rights, not an attack on press freedom. 

“It is the power and responsibility of the police to search the office of a newspaper in such cases,” he explained. 

“Press freedom is guaranteed, but it is not a free pass to destroy reputations with lies.”

He clarified the government’s position by referencing the Maldives Constitution, noting that while Article 27 guarantees freedom of expression (provided it is not contrary to the tenets of Islam) and Article 28 ensures media freedom, Article 33 explicitly grants everyone the right to protect their reputation and good name. 

“Spreading fabricated serious accusations is not journalism. Police are upholding the rule of law and the President’s constitutional rights,” the Minister said, adding that responsible freedom comes with accountability as no one is above the law.

Echoing the sentiment of responsible reporting, Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef called on journalists to exercise greater responsibility. 

In a post on his official X account, the Vice President emphasised that ethical journalism must ensure the quality and accuracy of information, promote accountability and transparency, and uphold democratic principles. 

He further warned that when these ethical standards are disregarded, it can lead to widespread misinformation, amplify harm, and create public unrest among citizens who depend on journalists for truthful reporting.