Battle for Media Freedom: Maldives Journalists Challenge New Control Law

Journalists in the Maldives plan to appeal to the country's Supreme Court to overturn a new law aimed at media control. The legislation establishes a commission with sweeping authority over media operations, leading to concerns of government control and restrictions on journalistic freedom.

In a bold move, journalists in the Maldives are set to appeal to the Supreme Court, challenging a recently enacted law that they argue suppresses media freedom. The legislation, named the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, was signed into law by President Mohamed Muizzu and empowers a new government-controlled commission.

The Maldives Journalists Association has criticized the commission's authority to block news sites and halt broadcasts, asserting that such powers undermine the independence of media outlets. The law has sparked fears of increased government control, as three commissioners and the chair are to be parliamentary appointees.

President Mohamed Muizzu's office has remained silent on the issue, while Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel claims the law ensures transparency and independence. However, media watchdogs observed a decline in the country's press freedom ranking, intensifying the debate over the legislation's impact.

(With inputs from agencies.)