Adhadhu CEO Fiyaz exercises right to silence over ‘Aisha’ documentary

  • Maldives
PUBLISHED 30 April 2026

Adhadhu's CEO and Chief Editor Hussain Fiyaz Moosa decided to exercise his right to remain silent during police questioning on Wednesday related to the ongoing investigation of the documentary ‘Aisha’.


The move follows a police raid at the newspaper's office on Monday, where officials seized a significant number of electronic and journalistic equipment under a court order. Hassan Mohamed, the newspaper's Managing Editor, also opted to exercise his right to remain silent when summoned on Tuesday.


Following his meeting with investigators this evening, it was revealed that Fiyaz is facing five criminal charges as per the Penal Code:


Article 30: Accountability for participation in an action executed by another individual.


Article 30(h)(2): Responsibility for indirect participation.


Article 81: Incitement to commit an offense.


Article 82: Conspiring to execute an unlawful action.


Article 612: Qazf (False claim regarding unfaithfulness).


Following the interrogation, Fiyaz's lawyer, Ali Hussain, informed the press that the police's inquiries were intended to expose confidential informants.


Fiyaz opted to remain silent for various reasons. "The foremost concern for my client at the moment is to protect his sources," stated Ali Hussain.


The lawyer also characterized the investigation as "political" and "baseless," alleging that the police are attempting to intimidate journalists and hinder reporting on governmental actions.


The police investigation concerning the documentary focused on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is being treated as a high-priority matter. Travel limitations have been imposed on Fiyaz, Hassan Mohamed, and Aishath Easha Ashraf, a past political appointee of the government, as a component of the inquiry.



The seizure of equipment from Adhadhu’s office has reportedly caused major disruptions in the outlet's daily operations.