The Maldives Parliament has declined an emergency motion from opposition MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) regarding the Media and Broadcasting Commission Bill, stating it was submitted in breach of parliamentary regulations. Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla explained that the motion did not comply with Article 197 (h) and (j) of the regulations, which prohibit motions on topics set for later debate or on ongoing discussions.
The opposition motion expressed concerns that the bill’s provisions could allow media regulation to fall directly under government control, given that the proposed commission includes members appointed by the President. MP Meekail also highlighted potential risks, claiming the bill could enable the government to impose heavy fines on media outlets and journalists or even shut down publications.
The Maldives Journalists Association and other media professionals have echoed these concerns. In response, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu reassured the public on X that the government does not intend to impose controls on the media.
