Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon has remarked that the press conference held by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on World Press Freedom Day is a clear demonstration of the commitment and dedication the President brings to his duties.

The event, which took place yesterday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:54 a.m., was marked by its exceptional length and the President’s continued engagement with the press. The session was briefly paused on four occasions to accommodate the noon, afternoon, Maghrib, and Isha prayers.

In a post shared on X, Minister Ghassan observed that the press conference illustrated the care, diligence, and relentless work ethic President Dr Muizzu has maintained since assuming office. He conveyed that such dedication should be a point of national pride, describing it as a reflection of the President’s daily conduct.

Throughout the event, President Dr Muizzu remained at the podium, offering journalists unrestricted opportunities to raise their questions. According to observers, this marks the first instance in which a Maldivian head of state has devoted such an extensive amount of time to direct media engagement.

Reports indicate that several journalists were permitted to ask multiple questions, with some engaging in extended exchanges lasting over thirty minutes. The President responded to inquiries of both political and personal nature, including those containing what were perceived to be false or provocative allegations.

Significantly, the press conference is believed to have set a new global record for duration. Lasting nearly 15 hours, it surpasses the previous record held by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who in 2019 conducted a 14-hour press briefing.