Opposition leader and Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail was manhandled by police Tuesday during ongoing demonstrations near the Parliament in Malé against the controversial Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill.
The bill, which seeks to replace the existing Maldives Media Council and Broadcasting Commission with a new body largely appointed by the president, has sparked widespread criticism from journalists, political parties, and rights groups who say it undermines press freedom.
Fayyaz was among protesters gathered near the Parliament compound calling for the bill’s withdrawal. Witnesses said police used force to push back demonstrators, and several participants sustained injuries during the confrontation.
The government has defended the legislation, saying it is intended to strengthen accountability in the media and combat misinformation. The bill cleared its first reading in Parliament and is now under committee review.
Protests are continuing in Malé as journalists and opposition figures maintain pressure on the government to reconsider the legislation.