Majlis accepts media control bill, protesting journalists arrested

Journalists protesting against the controversial bill submitted to the People's Majlis with an aim of suppressing free media are being violently arrested.

RaajjeMV understands that four journalists have now been arrested. These include Moosa Rasheed from Citizen News, Ahmed Aaid and Shahuzaan from Adhadhu News, Muzayyim from Dhauru News, and a journalist named Lamya from MV Plus. The journalist from Adhadhu News has now been released on the condition of not protesting in front of the President's Office.

Journalists marched to the front of the President’s Office on Wednesday after initially gathering near the People’s Majlis in protest of a contentious media control bill. Their demonstration coincided with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s return to the capital, Malé City, following a visit to several islands in Haa Dhaal Atoll.

Earlier in the day, journalists had assembled outside the People’s Majlis as lawmakers debated the bill, which is widely criticized for granting the president expanded authority over the country’s media. The initial debate took place during the morning session, after which the session was adjourned. The debate resumed in the afternoon, and the bill was subsequently passed.

The legislation has sparked concern among press freedom advocates, who warn that it could significantly curtail independent journalism in the Maldives.