Controlling media is not acceptable: President Muizzu

Government control of media is not acceptable, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said today.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), President Muizzu said that he does not believe in controlling newspapers and media. He further wrote that every Maldivian, anywhere in the country, should be able to do whatever they wish, so long as they do not violate Islam and the country's consitution.

This statement is in response to the Media Commission Bill submitted to the Parliament today by Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Abubakr, which has garnered significant criticism from both the public and media organisations.

The bill, if passed, would give the Media Commission the power to fine journalists and media outlets and withhold their licences. However, journalists are expressing concern, describing it as a "lockdown" of news and TV.

Although the bill was put forth by Hannan, who is an independent MP, the Parliament's super majority holder and ruling party People's National Congress (PNC) has not made a decision on whether the support the bill or not.

PNC's Parliamentary Group Leader, MP of Inguraidhoo constituency Ibrahim Falah said that a decision would be made following Parliamentary group discussions.

Speaking with local media outlet Mihaaru, Hannan said despite the criticism, he has no intention of withdrawing the bill and that bill was not submitted to the Parliament with a sponsorship from any party.

According to the bill, if passed, it would impose a fine between MVR 5,000 and MVR 50,000 on media outlets and MVR 5,000 to MVR 10,000 on journalists who violate the code of conduct. The bill would also grant the Media Commission the right to withhold licenses of media outlets.