MMC refutes judges' statement regarding Journalism Awards

Maldives Media Council (MMC) has stated that nothing was done against policies in regards to this year's Journalism Awards, and has said that the statement released by the judges for the Awards contains false allegations.

MMC's statement last night came following statements by the panel of judges and MMC President Ahmed Mustafa claiming that Adhadhu Online's 'Skeelan' documentary had been granted the award in the Audio/Video category against policies.

Last night's MMC statement assured that nothing was done outside of policies in granting awards in any categories. It said that the allegations made against the MMC's independence and the integrity of the awards are baseless.

Although the judges' statement said that MMC had earlier issued a statement condemning the 'Skeelan' documentary as being against journalistic standards, MMC said that the statement had been issued in response to complaints received regarding some media publishing content against journalistic standards during the run up to the presidential elections.

"The statement was not aimed at any specific content from any specific media. That was meant as advice to all media to be vigilant in spreading information," MMC said.

MMC said that they had not received any complaints or concerns from the judges even to the point where the awards were presented to winners. Nor had the judges raised any questions regarding the documentary with the council.

"No discussions with the council are necessary regarding the nominations. The decision lies solely with the judges," MMC said.

MMC said that as the council intended for the awards to be held fairly and transparently, they had wanted to appoint an audit firm as well. However, this was not possible due to budget constraints, which could not be resolved even through their efforts.

Yesterday, the Anti Corruption Commission also entered the offices of MMC under an investigation they are conducting into the Journalism Awards.