By The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has commended President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s announcement that the People’s National Congress (PNC), which holds a majority in the Maldivian Parliament, will reject the proposed Media and Broadcasting Commission Bill.
The controversial bill, introduced by an independent Member of Parliament, would have empowered a government-influenced body to impose fines on journalists and media outlets, revoke press licenses, and demand formal apologies for reporting deemed unfavorable. The CPJ, which advocates for press freedom globally, lauded the President’s decisive stance as a victory for media independence in the Maldives.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the Social Centre to mark his administration’s first year in office, President Muizzu reiterated his commitment to safeguarding press freedom. “We will not do that at all. Instead, we will work to empower the media. For that reason, the proposed budget for next year has, for the first time, an allocation of funds that will be issued to media outlets. For the first time, just as I pledged,” he stated.
The President also announced plans to provide office spaces for media outlets adhering to regulations at the new STO Hotel currently under construction. These measures, he explained, are part of broader efforts to ensure media in the Maldives can operate freely and without undue influence.
In a statement, the CPJ urged lawmakers to engage with journalists and civil society organizations to draft a new media regulation bill that upholds press freedom and addresses regulatory gaps responsibly.
President Muizzu’s decision has been widely praised as a step toward strengthening democratic principles in the Maldives. It underscores his administration’s respect for independent journalism and its critical role in fostering accountability and transparency.