The People’s Majlis has passed the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, incorporating a series of amendments proposed by the Government to address concerns raised by journalists and media organisations.

The bill, originally submitted by Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, was passed on 16 September with 60 votes in favour and one against. Fourteen amendments put forward by the Government were adopted before the final vote. Additional amendments submitted by Funadhoo MP Mohamed Mamdhooh were also approved.

The Government’s 14 proposed amendments to the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill cover several key areas, including the mandate of the commission. Revisions to Article 7 explicitly task the body with preventing the spread of anti-Islamic speech, morally degrading content, and material that promotes fascist activity. Further provisions under Articles 17, 18(f), 19 and 20 remove any presidential role in the appointment or dismissal of commission members, while Articles 28 and 39 introduce stricter ethical requirements, obliging the media to report truthfully, transparently and equitably. Safeguards have also been added under Article 21 to ensure fair procedures when removing commission members.

Other changes address issues of accountability and press freedom. Article 41 now sets disclosure standards that uphold personal liberty, while Article 42 establishes a new framework for releasing information in the public interest. Article 44 introduces criteria for editors of media outlets, and Section 67, which previously allowed punitive action against individual journalists, has been repealed. The amendments also include a mandatory annual budget allocation for the commission and provide a more comprehensive definition of electronic media, strengthening both independence and regulatory clarity.

The Counsel General had earlier confirmed that the revised bill does not contravene the Constitution or fundamental rights. The Government has stated that the amendments aim to balance freedom of the press with accountability, particularly in curbing misinformation and strengthening responsible reporting.

Officials emphasised that the legislation is intended to promote press freedom, prevent the spread of false information, and build a regulatory framework suited to modern journalism.