If the hefty fines imposed on the station by Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC) are reimbursed, the station would use it to aid those with special needs, says RaajjeTV’s Managing Director Ahmed Saleem.

Saleem revealed this during Vice President-elect Faisal Naseem’s visit to the station on Thursday.

Noting that the station has filed appeals at the Civil Court seeking compensation for the MVR 3.7 million fine imposed on it on four separate occasions, Saleem stated that if reimbursed 'the station plans to donate it to help people with special needs'.

He detailed that this decision was reached as the citizens had generously provided aid for the station when it was fined, and it plans to provide the same aid to others during their time of duress.

While RaajjeTV was fined under the draconian anti-defamation law introduced in 2016, parliament on Wednesday passed to repeal the law.

Highlighting that Naseem’s visit brought immense joy to the station, its management and staff, Saleem said that this shows the incoming government prioritizes media stations.

As such, Saleem went on to express his hope that the incoming government of President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will promote media freedom, and pave way for progress for those working in the field.

President-elect Solih and Vice President-elect Naseem will take oath of office this Saturday.