Attorney General Uz Ahmed Usham has said that the amendments proposed by the Government to the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill will comprehensively address the concerns raised by journalists, media organisations and the public.

Speaking to State media, AG Uz Usham said the amendments focus on striking a balance between protecting press freedom and ensuring accountability, particularly in curbing the spread of false information. He noted that 14 amendments have been forwarded to the parliamentary committee, covering the main issues identified by stakeholders.

Among the most significant proposals is the removal of a clause that would have permitted action against individual journalists. The amendments also remove the President’s role in appointing or dismissing members of the regulatory commission, a point highlighted as one of the biggest concerns of the media. Instead, the process will be handled independently through parliamentary mechanisms.

Uz Usham explained that the bill, initially submitted to parliament by independent MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, has been reviewed to align with government policy. This includes merging the Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission into a single body, supported by a state-funded budget allocation to ensure sustainability.

Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, Ibrahim Waheed, who also appeared on the programme on State media, said the Government has never sought to pass the bill in its original form and is committed to addressing the concerns raised. He added that many of the early criticisms were based on misinterpretations, stressing that the amended version would create a more effective and fair system.

The Attorney General said that with the changes, the bill will not only resolve journalists’ concerns but also create a stronger framework for regulating the media sector in line with modern needs. He added that the amendments would help safeguard the dignity of individuals while ensuring responsible journalism