Bar Council of the Maldives expressed concern today over the narrowing of press freedom and freedom of expression in the country, calling for the upholding of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

Following a video documentary shown by "Adhadhu" news, criminal charges were filed against two of its top executives, Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Hassan Ahmed, and the Criminal Court issued an order prohibiting any discussion related to the matter. Furthermore, two journalists from the outlet were sentenced to jail after being found in violation of that order.

In a statement released today, the Bar Council said that events are unfolding that narrow freedom of expression, freedom of the press, due process, and the principles of establishing justice.

It noted that these include the imprisonment of journalists by the Criminal Court for alleged contempt of court, the issuance of broad orders that restrict the public from discussing ongoing trials, and actions that obstruct the right to legal counsel and the right to open court proceedings.

Bar Council stated that the state must act in accordance with the Constitution, ensuring due process and avoiding conflict with the fundamental rights and freedoms protected by law.

"Freedom of expression and freedom of the press are the most important principles of a democratic society’s constitution. Any decision made to restrict these freedoms must be legally valid, absolutely necessary, and proportionate to the objective intended to be achieved," the statement said.

The Bar Council said that under its mandate to uphold and promote the rule of law, it has sent official letters to the Attorney General, the Prosecutor General, and the Criminal Court.

"In these letters, these institutions have been reminded of the rights guaranteed by the Constitution regarding the conduct of fair trials, the filing of charges, maintaining the independence of judges, the right to legal counsel, and the freedom of the press and expression," the statement said.

Additionally, the Bar Council stated that its Executive Committee has decided to provide legal assistance to journalists and media workers in need of such help through the Bar Council’s "Pro Bono Clearing House."