President His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has voiced his opposition to government control over the media, expressing support for press freedom amid recent concerns surrounding a proposed bill. The legislation, introduced by MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru of Thulhaadhoo Constituency, would grant authorities the power to fine media outlets and revoke licenses of both organizations and individual journalists.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Dr. Muizzu emphasized that he does not believe in controlling the media and underscored the importance of upholding media independence. He stated that citizens should be free to exercise their rights within the bounds of the Constitution and regarding Islamic values.
The President's remarks follow criticism of the bill by various groups, including the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which warned that such measures could restrict press freedom and stifle public discourse. President Muizzu’s comments are seen as a reassurance of his commitment to media freedom as Parliament debates the bill's implications.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Dr. Muizzu emphasized that he does not believe in controlling the media and underscored the importance of upholding media independence. He stated that citizens should be free to exercise their rights within the bounds of the Constitution and regarding Islamic values.
The President's remarks follow criticism of the bill by various groups, including the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which warned that such measures could restrict press freedom and stifle public discourse. President Muizzu’s comments are seen as a reassurance of his commitment to media freedom as Parliament debates the bill's implications.