MJA files police case against Falah over incitement of violence towards journalists

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has filed a case regarding the statement made by Ibrahim Falah, the leader of the main ruling People’s National Congress (PNC)’s Parliamentary Group and MP for Inguraidhoo constituency, during Wednesday’s parliamentary sitting, where he called for journalists to be "killed" rather than jailed, at the Maldives Police Service (MPS).

In a statement released on Thursday, MJA said that Falah's remarks contradict the fundamental principles of Islam, which include not being cruel to anyone. They stated that his comments have instilled fear among journalists and media workers.

The statement also emphasized that Falah's words could lead to a loss of peace and stability in society, potentially plunging the country into chaos. Therefore, the association has requested the police institution to investigate the matter and take the required action against the ruling party lawmaker.

During Wednesday's extraordinary parliamentary sitting discussing the media control bill, Falah stated that it was a significant bill and did not hinder any media workers. He also called on all PNC lawmakers to vote for the bill.

Falah claimed that he had suffered greatly due to false news spread by journalists. He emphasized being labeled as homosexual in media reports, which he said was slanderous fake news that affected his family as well.

MP Falah invoked a brutal method of torture and execution historically practiced, a phrase that carries violent, chilling connotations. In his speech, Falah suggested that this method “needs to be done” to journalists, instead of jailing them. Many interpret this as a call for the execution of journalists.

MJA has also called on PNC to take disciplinary action against Falah for openly calling for violence against a group of people on the parliament floor. They have also urged him to publicly apologize for his statements.