Nasheed calls for accountability and dialogue on media bill

Former President Mohamed Nasheed emphasized the importance of press freedom while stressing the need for journalist accountability on Sunday. He urged a meeting of all political parties to discuss the controversial media bill.

In a post on X, Nasheed stated, "Freedom of the press is extremely important, at the same time, journalists must be held accountable."

Last Thursday, Nasheed appealed to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu not to enact the media bill. The bill is currently in its committee stage and, upon parliamentary approval, awaits the President's signature within two weeks or faces return to Parliament.

"Whenever a government suppresses people’s right to freedom of expression it inevitably makes the country less free and less prosperous," Nasheed posted on Thursday.

A former journalist and active writer, Nasheed's recent comments followed the Independent Institutions Committee of the Parliament's separate summons of the Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom) and the Maldives Media Council (MMC) on Sunday. Both bodies voiced concerns over the media bill. The committee is slated to meet with the press on Monday, followed by discussions with the Maldives Journalist’s Association (MJA) and the Youth Ministry the next day.

Alhugandah fenna gothugai Media bill aa gulhey gothun hurihaa siyaasee party ehge bahdhalu vumeh beyvun beynun theri. Noosverikamuge minivan kan inthihaa ah beynun theri. Hama eyaai eku noosverin zinmaadhaaru vun ves muhinmu.

— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) August 31, 2025

BroadCom raised concerns about the lack of consultation with industry experts prior to the bill's parliamentary introduction. Chairperson Safa Shafeeg highlighted numerous issues needing consideration during drafting and stated that relevant parties were not consulted.

The MMC, while not opposing media regulation, advocated for a better approach.

If passed, the proposed Media Bill could impose fines between MVR 5,000 and MVR 25,000 on individual journalists, and MVR 100,000 on media outlets.

Furthermore, the Media Regulatory Commission would gain powers to suspend registrations during investigations, permanently revoke registrations via courts, block websites, and order broadcasting cessation.

The President would also be empowered to appoint three commission members and the commission's chairman.