JP condemns government's order to stop broadcasting interviews of convicts

Jumhooree Party (JP) has condemned the government's warning to take action against media stations that broadcast interviews and statements of convicts or those arrested over criminal charges.

In a press conference held at the party headquarters, JP's Secretary General Ahmed Sameer said that the party was concerned about government's attempt to intimidate the media through Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC) and Home Ministry. He said that such warnings are issued to intimidate the media and interfere with their work.

Sameer also said that since the Constitution allows citizens to carry out any activity that does not go against the Constitution and Islamic principles, President Abdulla Yameen cannot stop their activities. JP's secretary general also stated that MBC should attend to their lawful duties instead of intimidating media stations.

'The situation of the jails are extremely bad. Jails are categorized for namesake. The Home Minister is avoiding the duties detailed in the Parole Act. It is completely unacceptable to warn and intimidate journalists and media stations in order to misinform the public is', said Sameer.

Sameer also accused MBC of misusing laws and regulations and said that the extent of President Yameen's influence over the commission is obvious from their actions.

While highlighting that hefty fines against TV and radio stations, JP's secretary general said that President Yameen's intention is to make sure none of the media stations are functioning by the time of the Presidential Election.

Furthermore, Sameer said that the state media station has also become a channel that promotes President Yameen's personal agenda.