Media aid certain with Parliament supermajority: VP

Maldives Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef (Sembe) remarked on the relief brought on by the benefits of the media's financial independence.

He made the remarks during an exclusive interview with PSM News commemorating World Press Freedom Day and PSM News' seventh anniversary, on Friday.

Speaking on the occasion, the Maldives VP conveyed greetings to Maldivian journalists and news media on behalf of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and himself. 

In his comments, the Vice President expressed profound satisfaction, knowing that en elected government remains committed to the well-being of journalists and the society. He reiterated the government's commitment to recognizing and valuing the various contributions of journalists.

He also acknowledged the challenges faced by the growth of journalists and media outlets, and highlighted President Dr. Muizzu's efforts to foster a closer relationship with local media.

At PSM News' anniversary event, the Vice President noted President Muizzu's pledge to tackle the challenges faced by state-owned media and other media outlets due to lack of funding. He also recognized the need for initiatives supporting journalists and media.

"However, when we took charge of governance, parliament's majority is with the opposition, but the President wanted to allocate funds adequately to each media, making it the first time the government would be extending financial support to the media in this manner," Vice President said.

The Maldives VP shared that the President had already taken steps to ensure that each media outlet would be provided with the necessary resources per the guidelines.

Vice President Hussain further noted the President's pioneering opportunity to support the media with a supermajority in Parliament, "backed by the people's trust."

While emphasizing on the difficult working and financial conditions of the local media outlets, he noted President Muizzu had already fulfilled his pledge by allocating land from Hulhumale' for media operations, ensuring suitable arrangements for their work.

The Maldives VP expressed optimism the project to develop an establishment for media outlets will begin some time this year.