Minister of Health Dr. Abdulla Khaleel has expressed resentment over a news article published in ‘Dhiyavaru’ news and asserted that he would file a complaint against the news outlet.

Khaleel has expressed resentment and stated that he will file a complaint against the news outlet, at a time the article by the news outlet published on Friday, claimed that a case of Mpox, more commonly known as Monkeypox, has been detected in the capital city’s suburban extension, Hulhumalé.

Khaleel has since asserted that he would submit the matter to the Media Council, stating that it was a “blatant lie”.

The health minister’s statement about filing a report against the news outlet comes at a time the incumbent administration is imposing several threats and strains on journalism and freedom of expression.

As such, recently, the mobile device of a person who was suspected of taking a photo of the president inside a shopping mall of Singapore as part of his recent unofficial visit to the country, was confiscated by authorities.

In addition to this, the Maldives Police Service (MPS) recently seized the phone and electronic equipment of social media activist Thayyib Shaheem in a case alleging the circulation of an inaccurate statement.

'Adhadhu' newspaper has also faced government pressure after reporting that President Muizzu gives monthly payments to government members of the People's Majlis.

According to statistics publicized by the Media Council, the highest number of journalism-related complaints they receive are submitted directly by the President's Office.