Attorney General Uz Ahmed Usham has said the Government’s proposed amendments to the Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill are intended to protect the public from harm and misinformation while ensuring that press freedom remains intact.

Responding to a question on X about the bill, AG Uz Usham acknowledged that there are issues with the original draft, which was submitted to the People’s Majlis by independent MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru. He said the Government had reviewed the bill and introduced significant amendments to address those concerns, adding that further refinements would be made in consultation with stakeholders during the committee stage.

Uz Usham explained that the amendments include clarifying vague terminology in the bill, such as definitions relating to electronic media, national security and public order. He stressed that the aim is not to obstruct the media but to strengthen accountability, curb the spread of false information, and promote responsible reporting.

Uz Usham noted that challenges such as misinformation, accountability and misuse of information are real and cannot be ignored, adding that a clear legislative foundation is essential to begin addressing them. He emphasised that the amendments seek to strike a balance between upholding press freedom and protecting society from the dangers of disinformation.

The Attorney General also underlined that broad principles established through the bill would provide safeguards against intrusion into the media while ensuring that journalists and outlets operate with integrity.

This follows earlier remarks made on 11 September, when Uz Usham said the 14 amendments submitted by the Government would comprehensively address the concerns raised by journalists and media organisations. Among the most significant changes are the removal of a clause allowing action against individual journalists, and the withdrawal of presidential powers to appoint or dismiss members of the regulatory commission. Under the amendments, these responsibilities will be handled independently by parliament.