CPJ Calls on Maldives President to Reject “Regressive” Media Control Bill

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has urged President Mohamed Muizzu to withdraw a newly introduced media regulation bill, warning it poses a severe threat to press freedom and democratic integrity.

In a statement, Beh Lih Yi, CPJ's Asia-Pacific Regional Director, said, “President Mohamed Muizzu must uphold his pledge to support media freedom by ensuring this regressive bill is withdrawn”; the organization described the proposal as a direct assault on independent journalism.

The legislation, unveiled on August 18 in the People’s Majlis, proposes dismantling the Maldives Media Council and the Maldives Broadcasting Commission. These bodies would be replaced by a centralized "Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission" endowed with sweeping powers. The new commission would comprise seven members—three appointed by the president (including the chair) and four selected by the media sector, though subject to removal via parliamentary vote.

The bill grants the commission authority to:

• Impose fines on journalists between US $325 and $650, and on media outlets up to $6,500 for alleged code-of-conduct violations or non-compliance.

• Temporarily suspend the registration of media outlets during investigations.

• Pursue judicial orders to cancel media registrations outright.

• Block websites and halt broadcasts while probes are ongoing.

• Conduct retroactive investigations covering the year preceding its establishment.

CPJ warned that the creation of such a politically stacked commission, empowered to fine, suspend, and shutter media outlets at will, would effectively dismantle independent journalism and further erode the Maldives’ already fragile democratic space.

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA), the local media body, echoed CPJ’s concerns—labeling the bill a “grave threat” that criminalizes journalistic activity and was drafted without consultation with journalists or media outlets.

This is the second time such legislation has surfaced. A similar version was introduced last year but was withdrawn after President Muizzu expressed his opposition and encouraged his party to reject it.

At present, neither President Muizzu nor MP Abdul Hannan Abobakr, who introduced the bill, have issued comments in response to CPJ’s appeal.