President Muizzu ratifies Media Regulation Bill

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has today ratified the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation bill.

The bill was passed by Parliament at its sixth extraordinary sitting held on Tuesday, September 16, amid protests held voicing for the withdrawal of the bill by various media personnel. 

According to the President's Office, the Act is designed to foster a free and independent media environment in Maldives while safeguarding the constitutional right to press freedom.

A new regulatory authority will also be established under the Act to oversee both print and broadcast media, President's Office said.

With its enactment, Maldives Media Council; previously formed under the Newspapers and Magazines Act and the Maldives Media Council Act will be dissolved.

Maldives Broadcasting Commission, created under the Broadcasting Act, will also be reconstituted as Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.

Until the new commission is formally established, its powers and functions will be carried out by an interim five-member committee appointed by the Civil Service Commission.

Until the new commission is formally established, its powers and functions will be carried out by an interim five-member committee appointed by the Civil Service Commission.