The passing of the controversial media control bill by the People’s Majlis has drawn sharp criticism from former President Mohamed Nasheed, who described it as a deeply troubling moment for the country.

The bill was rushed through an extraordinary parliamentary sitting on Tuesday, with the backing of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's government, which currently holds a supermajority in parliament.

Nasheed condemned the legislation as a major setback for press freedom in the Maldives, stating that it erodes hard-won liberties achieved through years of struggle, sacrifice, and political resistance. He called on the public and institutions to resist what he described as a dangerous attempt to silence critical voices and dismantle democratic freedoms.

The bill, which has sparked outrage among journalists, civil society, and rights organizations, is seen as part of a broader effort by the Muizzu administration to exert control over independent media. Media freedom advocates, both domestic and international, have criticized the government for pushing the bill through with minimal transparency and virtually no opportunity for consultation.

Observers argue that the law will have far-reaching consequences on the freedom of expression in the country, enabling increased censorship, legal intimidation, and greater state influence over editorial content. The speed and manner in which the legislation was passed has fueled accusations of authoritarian governance and a deliberate rollback of democratic reforms.

The media control bill has become a flashpoint in the growing tension between the Muizzu administration and independent institutions, with critics warning that the country is sliding backward on press freedom and democratic accountability.