The government has announced plans to amend the Evidence Act.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced his decision to amend the Evidence Act on Wednesday night, while speaking at the first annual "Maldives Broadcast Award 2022" organized by the Maldives Broadcasting Commission.

The Evidence Act was ratified in July 2022, after it was passed by the People’s Majlis at the 22nd sitting of its second session on 30 June 2022.

Taking the podium at the Maldives Broadcast Award 2022, President Solih stressed that a number of concerns were raised by journalists regarding the amendments that were brought to section 136 (b) of the Evidence Act.

The president had earlier met with journalists to discuss their concerns.

With this being said, President Solih noted that his administration will address these concerns as it had previously by repealing the Defamation and Freedom of Speech Act which curtailed press freedom.

President Solih also touched down on the history of broadcasting in the Maldives and the benefits that television and radio broadcasting had brought to society.

Appealing on all journalists to practice journalism responsibly and to uphold ethical standards, the president highlighted the significance of providing journalists with opportunities for capacity building and skills development.

He also shed light on the role of the Maldives Broadcasting Commission and the Maldives Media Council in facilitating such opportunities, adding that the administration would support such efforts.

The ceremony saw the president presenting lifetime achievement awards to Ibrahim Manik and the late Zahidha Ibrahim; two noteworthy figures who made significant contributions to raising awareness about various issues across the Maldives.

First Lady Fazna Ahmed accompanied the President at the ceremony and presented awards to recipients of the Maldives Broadcasting Award 2022 Jury Awards.