Opposition leaders warn of democratic backsliding amid gov’t push for media control bill

On the occasion of International Democracy Day, several prominent opposition leaders have raised concerns over a controversial bill proposed by the government, which they say threatens freedom of expression and undermines core democratic principles in the Maldives.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih criticized the administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, stating that this year’s Democracy Day arrives at a "particularly precarious moment" for the nation’s democratic institutions.

Solih said that the bill is not designed to increase accountability or transparency, but to reward those who align with the government’s narrative and silence dissenting voices. He said this referring to the proposed media control legislation that would place media regulation under a government-controlled body.

MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail also condemned the timing and nature of the bill, calling its advancement on Democracy Day "ironic and alarming." He urged the People’s Majlis to heed the concerns raised by journalists and civil society groups and to repeal the bill.

The former Economic Minister stressed that the current administration has overseen the dismantling of independent institutions, a hostile takeover of the judiciary, and is now seeking to suppress the press.

Echoing these concerns, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid called for international attention and support to safeguard democratic freedoms in the Maldives.

Highlighting that the judiciary is no longer independent, and that the People’s Majlis has fallen under the control of the President’s Office, Shahid noted that those who speak out face harassment. He described the proposed bill as “a direct attack on the right of Maldivians to know the truth,” warning that democracy “dies in darkness” when the press is silenced.

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem reflected on the sacrifices made to establish democracy in the Maldives, urging the nation to reaffirm its commitment to democratic governance. He said that the separation of powers and the freedom of the press are cornerstones of a functioning democracy, adding that on Democracy Day, we must resolve to strengthen these institutions rather than curtail them.

These statements came in response to a message from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, posted on social media platform ‘X’, in which he emphasized the Maldives’ commitment to democratic values.

The president urged to stay dedicated to the journey towards greater representation of women and youth, ensuring that all Maldivian voices are heard and valued at every level of decision-making.

In his message, Muizzu highlighted the resilience of Maldivian democracy and expressed solidarity with global struggles for self-determination, particularly the plight of the Palestinian people. He affirmed that the Maldives would continue to work toward strengthening democratic institutions and promoting the voices of its people.

However, critics argue that the president’s statements stand in stark contrast to the actions of his administration. The controversial media bill was reportedly passed through a parliamentary committee in a secret session, raising further concerns about transparency and due process. Journalists and civil society organizations have strongly opposed the bill, warning that it poses a grave threat to press freedom and could lead to widespread censorship.

Observers note that while the president’s rhetoric on Democracy Day focused on empowerment and inclusion, the legislative developments signal a troubling trend toward authoritarianism. As calls mount for the withdrawal of the bill, the coming weeks may prove decisive for the future of democratic governance in the Maldives.