The Maldives Parliament’s Committee on Independent Institutions has approved the Media Regulation Bill with 72 amendments, despite strong opposition from journalists, civil society organisations, and international watchdogs who warn the legislation could curb press freedom.
The bill, introduced on 18 August by Independent MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, closely aligned with government MPs, seeks to dissolve the existing Maldives Media Council and Broadcasting Commission of Maldives. In their place, it proposes the creation of a seven-member Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission with extensive powers, including the ability to impose fines, suspend media outlets, and block content deemed inappropriate.
Critics argue the draft contains ambiguous provisions concerning “public order” and “national security,” which they fear could be exploited to arbitrarily restrict reporting. Media organisations and NGOs have cautioned that, if passed without safeguards, the law could significantly undermine media independence.
Journalists Stage Protests Over Transparency Concerns
Journalists have repeatedly demonstrated outside Parliament and the President’s Office, calling for the bill’s complete withdrawal rather than amendments. Tensions escalated on 10 September when reporters were forcibly removed from a closed-door committee session. While lawmakers defended the decision as a measure to protect personal information submitted publicly, the action drew criticism for limiting transparency in the legislative process.
Until this week, review meetings for the bill had been held behind closed doors. The most recent session was open to the public, during which the Attorney General’s Office submitted comments on the legislation—though most recommendations were not incorporated in the final draft.
Opposition Voices Rejected Amid Committee Majority
Opposition MP Meekail Ahmed Nasym of South Galolhu proposed several modifications, including renaming the legislation the “Media Control Bill.” His suggestions, however, were rejected by the committee, dominated by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC). Nasym also highlighted that the committee ignored a petition signed by 151 journalists, which had been endorsed by the Parliament’s Petition Committee. Officials later claimed the petition’s concerns were already addressed in the approved draft.
Journalists at the session argued that amendments introduced by Kelaa MP Abdulla Shareef worsened their concerns. Notably, the amendment restructured the composition of the new media commission. The original bill allowed three members to be appointed by the President and four elected by media representatives. The amendment gives Parliament authority to appoint three members while splitting the remaining four seats between broadcasting and other media sectors—a change critics say could allow state-owned outlets to dominate voting.
Fines Increased, Social Media Regulation Expanded
Another contentious amendment raised fines for media outlets to MVR 250,000, a sharp increase from the MVR 5,000–100,000 range in the original draft. Journalists argue that the bill’s scope extends beyond traditional media to include social media platforms, prompting fears of excessive government control over public discourse.
Although the committee chair called for a vote, results were not immediately announced as protests continued inside the chamber. Media professionals have labeled the legislation the “Media Control Bill,” warning that it could stifle independent journalism in the Maldives.
Committee Reshuffle Amid Bill Deliberations
During the bill’s deliberations, the Committee on Independent Institutions underwent a notable reshuffle. MPs Ibrahim Shujau, Abdul Latheef Mohamed, and Mohamed Mamdhooh were newly appointed, while Ibrahim Naseem, Adam Zahir, and Ibrahim Naufal were removed without the customary announcement in a parliamentary sitting.
The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives, the Maldives Media Council, the Broadcasting Commission, and several international organisations have all voiced concerns about the legislation, warning it could erode press freedom. NGOs have gone further, describing the bill as one that could “destroy free press.”
Despite opposition, government-aligned lawmakers insist the legislation strengthens journalism, claiming that media professionals’ concerns have been considered.
Next Steps in Parliament
A special parliamentary sitting is scheduled for tomorrow to continue debates on the bill, according to local media reports. The committee’s work was completed during Parliament’s second-term recess, with the next session set to begin early next month.
