Journalists object as committee closes meeting on media bill

The Independent Institutions Committee of Parliament decided on Tuesday to review the proposed media regulation bill in a closed-door session.

The committee began its meeting before voting to exclude the press. Members supporting the decision argued that comments submitted on the bill contained personal information and should not be discussed in public. Journalists present to cover the proceedings objected to the move.

The bill, which proposes establishing a government-appointed commission with powers to regulate media outlets, journalists, and social media activity, is under review by the committee while Parliament remains in recess. Members of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) hold a majority in the committee.

Concerns about the bill have been raised by every stakeholder consulted so far. On Sunday, the committee met with the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission. On Monday, journalists representing 22 registered media outlets presented their views. The Maldives Journalists Association has also requested Parliament to conduct a study on the Media Council system before proceeding.

The bill was introduced by MP Abdul Hannan Abubakar, who has previously proposed similar legislation. On this occasion, Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim supported its submission.

The proposal has drawn protests from journalists, who staged demonstrations outside the President’s Office and Muliaage last week. President Mohamed Muizzu later met with senior journalists. However, Attorney General Ahmed Usham stated after the meeting that the government would not withdraw the bill.