MP Saudhullah backs media-shackling bill following RaajjeTV coverage of his police case

Saudhullah Hilmy, MP for the North Thinadhoo constituency, has openly expressed his support for the controversial media control bill, citing a recent report by privately-run RaajjeTV on a police case filed against him as his primary reason.

Speaking to journalists upon arriving at the People’s Majlis on Wednesday morning, Saudhullah stated that he “fully supports” the bill, which many critics argue aims to restrict press freedom in the Maldives.

He accused RaajjeTV of defaming him through their coverage, adding that this influenced his stance on the legislation. When pressed on why he had not pursued legal action for defamation, Saudhullah responded, “I can’t go to court for every matter.”

Further questioning about his views on alleged government corruption during former President Abdulla Yameen’s administration, and the use of the Defamation Act, Saudhullah dismissed such claims, stating that he does not believe corruption took place.

On the concerns raised by journalists about the bill’s impact on press freedom, Saudhullah said any issues could be addressed in parliamentary committee discussions.

The lawmaker claims his reputation was tarnished by a RaajjeTV news report published on 4 August 2025, which covered allegations of fraud involving his company, Mims Private Limited. The report detailed a case submitted to the Maldives Police Service concerning claims that public funds were obtained through deceptive means.

RaajjeTV’s report was based on a letter sent to the Police Commissioner by a member of the public, highlighting concerns about Mims Private Limited’s failure to complete a government-contracted project. The letter referenced comments made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during a recent official function in Manadhoo island of Noonu atoll, where he noted that Mims, contracted in 2021 to complete construction of the island’s school building within 360 days, had only finished approximately 70 to 75 percent of the work.

The contract was valued at MVR 15,361,325.49 and the president emphasized that the government had disbursed all necessary funds for the project.

The letter alleges that Saudhullah’s company, Mims Private Limited, fraudulently obtained public funds from the Maldivian government through deceptive means. It calls for a thorough criminal investigation into the matter, emphasizing that the public views any form of deception against government institutions as a serious offense.

In addition to this, it has come to light that Mims Private Limited is among the parties owing a total of MVR 29.9 million in outstanding land rent to the Thinadhoo City Council, further casting doubt on Saudhullah’s financial conduct.