Parliament has decided to hold an extraordinary sitting today, although the time and agenda have not yet been confirmed.

While official sittings typically begin at 9:00 am, extraordinary sittings have in the past been scheduled at varying times.

Parliament’s current focus is the Media Regulation Bill, submitted by Thulhaadhoo Independent MP Abdul Hannan Abubakuru and backed by the PNC supermajority. The Independent Institutions Committee approved the bill with amendments yesterday, with a possible vote at today’s sitting.

The bill has drawn strong criticism from journalists, who argue it threatens press freedom. A petition signed by a large number of media workers was submitted to both President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and Parliament urging withdrawal of the legislation.

However, the government maintains that with amendments proposed by the Attorney General’s Office, the bill will undergo significant improvements. Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed (Asward) said last night that the committee had now decided in line with changes requested by journalists.