Media freedom is a fundamental element to reach true democracy: VP

Media freedom is a fundamental element to reach true democracy, says Vice President Faisal Naseem.

Speaking at the Journalism Awards Ceremony at Dharubaaruge on Sunday, VP Naseem stressed that a democratic nation must have the right to media freedom so that journalists may cater to the concerns of the public.

As such, the Vice President stated that the role of the people is to hold the government accountable as they are the ones who elect representatives to serve them in a democracy.

Noting that not a single complaint has been filed against a journalist since the new government took over, VP Naseem stated that the government has acknowledged the concerns and obstacles they face in their work.

In this regard, VP Naseem stressed that journalists have been repressed to hide themselves out of fear in the past as they have been targeted for constant attacks.

As such, shedding light on such incidences of the past, VP Naseem highlighted that the current government will prioritize the importance of press freedom in order to build a democratic nation.

Adding that governments benefit from independent journalists, the Vice President assured that the current administration will heed constructive criticism from journalists and “strive forward through reform”.

In addition, the government is committed to promote independent journalism and aims to extend policies that will redefine press freedom, by the time 2021 rolls around, said VP Naseem.

He included a proposal to establish a national press club and propose amendments to the Public Service Media Act and Maldives Broadcasting Commission Act.

Organized by the Maldives Media Council, the event saw the awarding of several journalists who have graced the name of the field. VP Naseem had given away top awards to some of the most distinguished and celebrated recipients among those nominated.