MDP Parliamentary Group Member and Hanimaadhoo MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa has voiced strong support for journalists protesting in parliament, declaring that the country survives today because of the work of the media.
His remarks came during the parliamentary debate on the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, introduced by Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, where journalists in the chamber covered their mouths in protest to symbolize what they say is an attempt to silence independent reporting.
Ghafoor accused the government of using state resources to cover up corruption and theft, urging the media to continue exposing wrongdoing. He said protecting people’s rights must come first and cautioned against punishing those who report on corruption rather than those committing it.
The bill, which seeks to establish a new Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission with powers to fine, suspend, or block media outlets under investigation, has been widely criticized by journalists and media bodies as a serious threat to press freedom.
His remarks came during the parliamentary debate on the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, introduced by Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, where journalists in the chamber covered their mouths in protest to symbolize what they say is an attempt to silence independent reporting.
Ghafoor accused the government of using state resources to cover up corruption and theft, urging the media to continue exposing wrongdoing. He said protecting people’s rights must come first and cautioned against punishing those who report on corruption rather than those committing it.
The bill, which seeks to establish a new Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission with powers to fine, suspend, or block media outlets under investigation, has been widely criticized by journalists and media bodies as a serious threat to press freedom.
