Journalists protesting outside the President’s Office today faced police intervention after expressing their opposition to the recently accepted media control bill.
Police moved some journalists from the area and detained others in their vehicles. Those briefly taken into police custody included Aaidh Ahmed and Mohamed Shahzan of Adhadhu, Muzayyin Nazim of Dhauru, and Moosa Rasheed of Citizen. All were released shortly afterward.
Authorities have now installed barricades around the President’s Office and directed journalists away from the immediate vicinity.
Earlier in the day, journalists staged demonstrations outside the parliament and voiced their concerns from the parliamentary viewing gallery. Their protest came as the bill, widely criticized for restricting press freedom, was being reviewed and voted on by MPs.
The bill, officially presented as a media regulation measure, has sparked widespread concern that it could undermine independent journalism in the Maldives. It was submitted by independent MP Abdul Hannan AbuBakuru from Thulhaadhoo.
During an extraordinary parliamentary session held outside the usual chamber, the bill was accepted with 49 votes in favor, primarily from ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) MPs. Twelve MPs voted against the legislation. The bill will now move to the Independent Commissions Committee for further review.
Local and international organizations have urged Maldivian lawmakers to reject the bill, warning that it could threaten press freedom. Journalists and media organizations have voiced strong opposition, emphasizing that the legislation drastically limits rights guaranteed in the Constitution.
The Maldives Media Council and the Maldives Journalists Association have both issued formal statements opposing the bill. Journalists have also begun circulating petitions to pressure authorities into reconsidering the law.
MPs supporting the bill argue that the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission of Maldives have overlapping responsibilities, yet fail to act when citizens are defamed. Supporters claim the bill is a key step toward reforming media practices in the country.
Despite these arguments, critics maintain that the bill could give authorities excessive control over reporting and editorial content, creating a chilling effect on free expression.
Today’s events highlight growing tension between the government and the media. Journalists remain vigilant, continuing to raise their voices in defense of press freedom, even as police presence around key government offices increases.
Observers say the situation could have long-term implications for independent journalism and democratic accountability in the Maldives.
