Pres. signals willingness to reconsider media control bill in meeting with journalists

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has met with journalists protesting against a government-backed bill currently before the People’s Majlis, widely criticized as an attempt to curtail press freedom.

The meeting took place on Thursday following ongoing demonstrations by journalists outside the President’s Office, demanding the immediate withdrawal of what has become known as the “media control bill.” Protesters argue the bill threatens the independence of the press and could set a dangerous precedent for free expression in the Maldives.

Journalists who participated in the meeting told reporters that President Muizzu assured them it is not his intention to control the media. He stated that he would not support any measures that infringe upon media independence and expressed openness to revising the bill during the parliamentary committee stage.

Despite the president’s assurances, journalists remain firm in their stance that the bill is fundamentally flawed and cannot be salvaged through amendments. They argued that drafting an entirely new bill, with input from media professionals, would be more efficient and appropriate than attempting to fix the existing one.

Journalists have stated that President Muizzu has given assurance that he will consider withdrawing the bill submitted to the People's Majlis.

After meeting with the president, Ahmed “Hirigaa” Zahir, the editor of Dhauru News, said that the president stated controlling the media is not his intention.

According to the attendees, President Muizzu indicated he would consider withdrawing the bill altogether, but noted that a final decision would be made after consulting with Attorney General Ahmed Usham.

As journalists await the president’s final decision, protests are expected to continue until a clear commitment is made to protect press freedom and uphold democratic values in the legislative process.