Former justice minister Mohamed Muiz Adnan has said press freedom must be exercised within legal and ethical boundaries.

In a post shared on social media, he said protecting honour and dignity is one of the most important responsibilities in an Islamic society and warned that journalism should not be treated as a licence to insult people, make baseless accusations, or spread rumours.

He added that press freedom must be exercised responsibly, noting that journalism should serve truth and justice rather than personal or political attacks.

His remarks follow comments by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during a press conference on Monday, where the President said allegations made against him in a documentary were false and that legal action would be taken against those responsible.

The former justice minister said that if false allegations and rumours are spread, regardless of whether the individual is a politician, Government official, journalist or citizen, firm action should be taken through the legal and judicial system.

He added that accountability must apply equally to everyone to protect justice and maintain public trust.