Must seek technical assistance when taking action on media: ex-Presidents of Media Council

Former Presidents of the Maldives Media Council has called on relevant commissions to seek the necessary technical assistance, as well conduct 'impartial' investigations before implementing measures on media, calling on them 'to fulfil their mandates justly'.

A letter signed by four former Presidents of the council, expressing concern over the current status of media in the Maldives, was sent to the Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC).

The statement reflected the current measures being implemented on journalism and journalists, while fulfilling their duties. The former presidents had also called on the Commission 'to abandon their harsh stance used on journalists', who in most cases face physical harm while in line of duty.

The letter highlighted MBC's silence on the various restrictions journalists face on a daily basis, adding that it 'has failed to create a safe environment for media to function'.

It also noted that some of the decisions taken by the Commission only served 'to hinder the very existence of certain stations'. The statement especially noted the MVR 1 million penalty levied on RaajjeTV under the Anti-Defamation and Freedom of Expression bill, on the same day it paid the previous fine of MVR 250,000, adding that this was 'deeply concerning'.

It recommended that the Commission seek technical expertise and take into consideration the local media context and situation prior to enacting such penalties.

Four former Presidents; Mohamed Nafiz, Husham Mohamed, Abdullah Muaz Yoosuf and Mohamed Asif (Mondhu), signed an agreement on Monday 'to promote media rights in the Maldives'.