MJA presents 9 demands to govt on Press Freedom Day
The association held a silent protest outside the President's Office of Maldives before issuing a statement outlining its proposals.
Maldives Journalists Association on Sunday presented nine demands to the government to mark World Press Freedom Day.
The association held a silent protest outside the President's Office of Maldives before issuing a statement outlining its proposals.
In the statement, the MJA said it was concerned about conditions for journalism in the Maldives and cited the country’s decline in the latest press freedom rankings published by Reporters Without Borders.
“The intimidation of journalists and the police raids on newsrooms are actions that have no place in a democratic society,” the statement said.
The association called for immediate steps to protect press freedom and create a safer environment for media workers.
Among its demands, the MJA called for the repeal of the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulatory Act and the creation of a self-regulatory mechanism developed in consultation with the media sector.
It also called for an end to criminal investigations involving Adhadhu and its journalists, as well as the return of equipment seized during a police search.
The association further requested the removal of travel restrictions imposed on Adhadhu editors.
Other demands included ending the use of criminal investigations against journalists for their work, strengthening protection for journalists and their families, and ensuring police protection for reporters covering protests and unrest.
The MJA also urged the publication of reports compiled by the Presidential Commission on Deaths and Enforced Disappearances concerning journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rasheed, along with an open and independent public inquiry.
The association called for full compliance with the Right to Information Act and the removal of barriers to disclosure by state institutions.
It also urged amendments to the Evidence Act provisions that require journalists to reveal sources, saying the law should align with international standards.
The MJA further called for state grants to media organisations to be distributed independently, fairly and transparently through a system developed with journalists, editors, civil society and international partners.
The association said journalism can only fulfil its role of holding those in power accountable when media workers are able to operate freely.
It also invited the government to engage in consultations with media stakeholders on the issues raised.
