New regulations have been published granting authorities the power to fine news outlets up to MVR 100,000 and take action to block content
Under new regulations released by the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission, the authority now holds the power to fine news outlets up to MVR 100,000 for ethical breaches and petition the courts to revoke their licenses. The commission can also take disciplinary action against individual journalists, such as issuing formal warnings or demanding public apologies, a move that comes amid growing concerns over government pressure on the media.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu speaks during a press conference held at the President's Office. | president office
The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (Control Commission) has published new regulations governing the conduct of newspapers and magazines, introducing fines of up to MVR 100,000 and granting the authority to suspend content.
The regulation governing the investigation of complaints and the enforcement of disciplinary actions submitted to the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission was officially gazetted and came into effect on Tuesday.
These regulations detail the disciplinary actions to be taken against individual news outlets and journalists. Specifically, news publications found in violation of the code of conduct may face fines ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 100,000.
Furthermore, the proposed measures include blocking platforms used by news outlets to publish certain content and filing court petitions to revoke the registration of media organizations.
Regarding the measures that can be taken against individual journalists under the regulations, these include directives to rectify legal violations, orders to issue a public apology, and requirements to release statements as prescribed by the Commission.
It is noteworthy that the Commission released these regulations at a time when the Maldives Police Service has conducted a raid on a local media outlet. This also coincides with a period where the President of the Maldives has publicly called for an investigation into a matter related to that same media organization.
