MMC urges against obstructing journos from discharging duties

Maldives Media Council (MCC) has urged not to obstruct journalists covering protests and rallies.

In a statement, MMC expressed concern over serious injuries caused to journalists covering the opposition coalition’s protest near the People’s Majlis area on Monday morning in their attempt to dismantle the protest in addition to efforts by the police to obstruct journalists from carrying out their duties.

Journalists, alleging obstruction by the police while covering Monday’s protest, have also expressed concern over the matter.

“Efforts by anyone to obstruct a journalist from discharging their professional duties as granted by the right to freedom of press is unacceptable,” the statement read.

Underscoring they are legally mandated to work towards ensuring an independent work environment for journalists and eliminating obstacles faced by journalists in discharging their duties – MMC said that obstructing a journalist from carrying out their duties, without them having violated laws and regulations, is completely unacceptable.

In their statement, MMC also reminded journalists to discharge their duties responsibly while adhering to the respective laws, regulations and code of ethics.

Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) has also issued a statement expressing concern over injuries to caused to journalists covering protests.