The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has called on the government to withdraw the proposed Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission Bill, saying it poses a serious threat to press freedom.
In a press release issued following a meeting with media outlets and the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) on Thursday, the MDP warned that the bill, if passed, would severely restrict press freedom and create significant challenges for journalists.
“The freedom of the press will be extremely restricted, and journalists will face many challenges in their work. Therefore, this party calls on the government to withdraw this bill,” the statement read.
The bill proposes to grant the President authority to appoint the President and Vice-President of the commission. Additionally, four of the seven commission members would be government appointees, while only three would be nominated by the media. This composition, the MDP says, would give the government complete control over the commission.
The opposition also criticised provisions requiring journalists to adhere to a code of conduct mandating impartial reporting and prohibiting language deemed disrespectful or insulting to a person’s dignity. The MDP argued these measures are designed to stifle criticism of the government.
Further concerns were raised over provisions enabling the commission to impose fines on media outlets and journalists for perceived violations, a move the MDP said could lead to the closure of newspapers and undermine the role of the press as the fourth estate of democracy.
“Journalists play an essential role in providing transparent news and holding the government and representatives accountable. This bill threatens to destroy that role,” the party stated.
Journalists and media advocates have similarly expressed alarm, urging the government to uphold democratic principles and ensure an enabling environment for the media to operate freely.
