Members of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) disrupted operations at the State media outlet Public Service Media (PSM) on Monday, alleging unequal coverage of the upcoming public referendum on holding concurrent presidential and parliamentary elections.

Several senior party figures and activists entered the PSM premises as part of a protest linked to the referendum scheduled for April 4, which will be held alongside the Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections.

In a statement shared on social media, PSM said the MDP had sent a letter on Sunday night requesting a meeting with the Managing Director at 1:00 p.m. on Monday. The broadcaster said it had already provided a response to the concerns raised by the party and noted that the Managing Director is currently in Saudi Arabia performing Umrah.

The State broadcaster maintained that its current programming is strictly focused on providing technical and procedural information to raise public awareness about the referendum.

PSM further explained that these segments utilise experienced individuals, such as former members of the People’s Majlis, rather than providing a platform for political parties, noting that parties have historically not been invited to participate in such technical briefings.

In its official response, PSM urged the MDP to refrain from spreading misinformation that could undermine public trust in the institution's independence. The broadcaster also called for an end to actions that intimidate employees or obstruct the functional duties of the State media.

The incident has drawn public criticism and renewed debate over the MDP’s relationship with state media. Reference has also been made to allegations that state platforms were used to promote political narratives during periods when the party was in government, as well as the 2012 controversy surrounding the reported removal of PSM’s digital archives following the change in government.