Applications open for BroadCom membership

Applications have been opened for two membership positions at Maldives Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom).

The President’s Office, in an announcement on Tuesday, said they opened applications for posts as the term of two incumbent members is set to expire soon.

The deadline to submit applications has been set at 12:00pm on November 26th.

Requirements:

• Must not have been convicted of a crime or corruption that warrants a penalty under the Islamic Shariah within the last five years
• Must not hold an elected or appointed position specified in the constitution or any of the laws
• Must not be employed in civil service, the government or a state-owned company
• Must not hold a financial stake in the communication and broadcasting sector

The President’s Office will be accepting application forms between 8:30am and 12:00pm on all working days during the application period. The form must be submitted alongside the required declaration and criminal and debt record forms – all of which are available on the President’s Office’s website.

BroadCom comprises of seven members – each appointed for a term of five years. The term of the Commission’s president Mariyam Waheeda and member Ali Yousuf is set to expire this year.

The application for BroadCom membership has been opened at a time a bill has been submitted to the Parliament seeking to merge BroadCom and Maldives Media Council (MMC) to incept a new body to regulate broadcasting and media in the Maldives under the name Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.

The bill was submitted by independently elected Thulaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakr

Concern has been raised over the bill, as the government will receive the majority of the Commission incepted under the Act which could inhibit press freedom. A campaign has been launched against the bill under the name ‘Hatharehge Hagguga’, which is spearheaded by Maldives Journalist Association (MJA).

Speaking at an event held last night to commemorate the current administration’s first anniversary, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said the content of the bill is not his policy and therefore, the ruling PNC-dominated Parliament will reject the bill.