Media Bill Under Fire as 21 Outlets Urge Committee to Withdraw Proposal

A parliamentary committee has begun reviewing the proposed “Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill”, with journalists warning that the legislation poses a serious threat to freedom of expression and press independence in the Maldives.

During the committee’s deliberations, 22 media organisations formally raised concerns where 21 media organisations called to withdraw, arguing that the bill undermines constitutional rights and could pave the way for increased government control over independent media.

Over the past three days, the committee has gathered feedback from stakeholders, with strong objections raised about the bill’s implications. Media representatives highlighted that the draft contains provisions that threaten both press freedom and the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution. They also stressed that the bill should either be withdrawn or significantly revised before being considered in parliament.

MP Abdul Hannan, who submitted the bill to the Majlis, argued that regulation of media under government control was necessary. However, journalists pointed out that they were not consulted during the drafting process, raising concerns about transparency and the true intent behind the legislation.