CPJ Condemns Crackdown on Journalists Protesting Media Bill in Maldives

he Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has raised alarm over reports of a crackdown on journalists who protested against the controversial media regulation bill currently under debate in the Maldives parliament.

In a statement posted on X, CPJ urged President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to ensure that journalists are not targeted for “voicing legitimate criticism” and demanding the bill’s withdrawal.

“President Mohamed Muizzu should reject a bill that would dismantle press freedom and place the media under government control,” CPJ reiterated.

The media bill, introduced by Independent MP Abdul Hannan Abubakr, proposes sweeping changes to the regulation of media and broadcasting, including granting the state significant control over licensing and oversight. Journalists, media organizations, and international watchdogs have described it as a direct threat to press freedom, warning that it could roll back two decades of democratic progress in the Maldives.

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) and the Maldives Media Council have also called for the withdrawal of the bill, while dozens of journalists staged demonstrations earlier this week, demanding lawmakers vote against it.

Despite criticism, the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) has expressed support for the bill, fueling concerns that it could be passed with the government’s parliamentary supermajority.

CPJ’s call adds to growing international pressure on the Maldivian government to abandon the legislation, which critics say is designed to silence independent media and tighten state control over public discourse.