MJA opens public consultation on press council

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has announced the formation of a Press Council to establish a self-regulatory framework for the media and has invited public comments on its proposed structure.

The move follows the ratification of the Media Control Bill by President Mohamed Muizzu last week, which created a government-appointed commission to oversee the media. The commission is currently being administered by an interim committee.

MJA said it decided to set up a separate Press Council to ensure media self-regulation. A committee has been appointed to lead the process, with veteran journalist Ahmed Zahir as chair and MJA Executive Director Mohamed Junaid Saleem as co-chair. The committee held its first meeting on Monday and aims to finalise the framework by 22 October.

According to MJA, the proposed Press Council would consist of nine members: six elected by the media (including two representing broadcast outlets), two from the public, and one from civil society. Each participating media organisation would be entitled to one vote in elections.

The Council’s mandate would include reviewing ethical aspects of journalistic content, investigating and resolving complaints from the public, and promoting media literacy. Its stated objectives are to strengthen ethical standards, ensure accountability, and provide timely resolution of disputes related to media activity.

Public comments on the framework are open until 6 p.m. on Tuesday.