The High Court has approved the appeal submitted by two Adhadhu journalists, Leevan Ali Naseer and Mohamed Shahzan, who were imprisoned for contempt of court.

Each journalist filed independent appeals contesting their sentences. Leevan has been released after finishing his 10‑day sentence, whereas Shahzan is still in custody serving his 15‑day term. The High Court has officially acknowledged both cases.

The duo was imprisoned for reportedly breaching a Criminal Court directive related to the accusations against the leaders of Adhadhu. They were brought before the Criminal Court and sentenced during a private hearing.

Adhadhu's CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa informed Sun that the journalists were detained and convicted without a chance to defend themselves against the claims.

Global entities, such as the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), have voiced worries about the incarceration and demanded the immediate release of the journalists.

The Maldives' Human Rights Commission (HRCM) has initiated an inquiry into the matter.