Govt says no plans to block social media platforms

Government has no intention of blocking any social media platforms, presidential spokesperson Heena Waleed said Wednesday.

Responding to reports circulating online about the potential blocking of platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, Heena clarified that no such decision has been made or discussed.

"The claims suggesting so are entirely false and the government has made no decisions to block any social media platforms, nor has it engaged in any discussions regarding the issue," she said.

"We would like to reaffirm that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu remains steadfast in promoting and safeguarding the fundamental rights and freedoms granted to our beloved citizens by the constitution of Maldives."

The reports followed earlier government action to block several unregistered news websites accused of disseminating false information about officials. These blocks were later lifted after facing public criticism.

According to the Maldives Media Council, the majority of complaints about the spread of false news originate from state institutions. Last year, the President's Office alone filed over 80 complaints regarding content published in various media outlets.