President Dr Mohamed Muizzu held a meeting with the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) today, to discuss concerns over the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, which is currently being deliberated in Parliament. The meeting took place at the request of the association.

During the discussions, the President assured the media representatives that he is prepared to listen to the issues raised by the association and give them due consideration. He stressed that the concerns raised by journalists would always be heard and noted that his Administration remains fully supportive of the media.

The meeting, which lasted for over an hour, focused on the Government’s approach to media freedom. The President said the Government had already taken significant steps to create a more conducive environment for journalism in the Maldives. He added that his Administration does not wish to control the regulation of the media or play any role in the appointment of members to regulatory bodies.

He further noted that the Government would make amendments to the specific clauses of the bill that had drawn concern from the association. He assured the MJA of the Government’s continued support for upholding press freedom in the country.