Rights group warns new media law could limit graft reporting
The organisation noted that its main concern is that the law could be used to suppress political dissent and limit reporting on corruption and accountability.
Top Stories
-
Complaint filed with JSC over judge’s remarks on defence lawyer
-
Court orders 5-day remand for MP Zakir over fishermen’s protest
-
Chinese firm awarded MVR 91.8M Hulhumalé road works contract
-
Malé mayor says council audit findings sent to ACC, police
-
Yameen accuses president of failing to deliver on promises
The South Asian Human Rights Organisation (SAHR) has expressed concern that the new media regulation law in the Maldives could restrict reporting on issues of public interest, including government accountability and corruption.
In a statement issued on Saturday, SAHR said the law, which was passed by Parliament and ratified despite opposition from journalists, local stakeholders and international organisations, poses a significant obstacle to freedom of expression and press freedom.
The organisation noted that its main concern is that the law could be used to suppress political dissent and limit reporting on corruption and state accountability.
SAHR also criticised the manner in which Parliament passed the bill, saying the process lacked adequate consultation.
The organisation urged the government to reconsider the legislation and amend it in line with the constitutional guarantees of free expression and press freedom.
Following the passage of the media regulation act, Maldivian journalists have launched the “Fullstop Movement,” a campaign aimed at defending civil rights and opposing the implementation of the law.
