Home Minister Ali Ihusaan has said police have the authority to search media organisations in cases involving allegations of qazf, or false accusations of adultery under Islamic law.
In a post on X, Ihusaan stated that while press freedom is guaranteed, it does not extend to harming reputations.
“Maldives Police are right to investigate and raid the news outlet over false ‘zina’ allegations against the President,” he said.
“Press freedom is guaranteed, but not a free pass to destroy reputations with lies.”
He cited constitutional provisions, including Article 27 on freedom of expression, Article 28 on media freedom subject to Islamic tenets, and Article 33 on the right to protect one’s
reputation.
“Spreading fabricated serious accusations is not journalism. Police are upholding the rule of law and the President’s constitutional rights,” he added.
Police on Monday searched electronic devices at the newspaper’s office and confiscated items including storage media as part of an ongoing investigation.
At a press conference held earlier, President Mohamed Muizzu denied the allegations made in the documentary and said authorities would be asked to pursue legal action against those involved in its production.
.svg)
