Media warned not to broadcast interviews, statements of convicts

Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC) has warned the media against broadcasting interviews and statements of those serving prison sentences or those arrested over criminal charges.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, the Commission cited section 62 of the Prisons and Parole Act stating that a person serving a prison sentence does not have the right to hold a position of responsibility in, or join activities of, political parties or organizations.

It also stated that information obtained from meetings with convicts can only be used according to the guidelines written down in the Prisons and Parole Act.

Relevant state authorities have also repeatedly noted that organizations and private and political parties have recently been unlawfully using the media to broadcast activities that promote convicts, MBC said.

Therefore, it advised broadcasters to follow the aforementioned points as well as the Anti-Defamation Act, broadcasting regulations, and the code of practice, or face legal action.

This comes at a time when the media has been reporting on former President Mohamed Nasheed, who is in self-exile after fleeing a prison sentence, using online conferencing to campaign across the country for this year’s presidential election. Earlier on Tuesday, home ministry issued a statement warning to take action against media organizations that report on convicts.