President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has assured the Maldivian people that no journalist or individual has lost their rights under the recently enacted Maldives Media and Broadcasting Act. Speaking during a public gathering in Vaavu Felidhoo as part of his nationwide atoll tour, the President firmly rejected claims that the new law curtails press freedom.
President Muizzu stressed that his government has not introduced any measure that undermines freedom of the press. Instead, he underlined that the law safeguards journalists’ ability to report truthfully while protecting the dignity and harmony of Maldivian society. “There is ample space to present facts in their fullest form. There are no restrictions. But freedom does not mean writing false stories without verifying facts” he declared.
The President reminded the public that the Maldives, as a 100% Islamic nation, must uphold values of truth, respect, and mutual harmony. He pointed out that spreading falsehoods damages families and society, and emphasized that both Islam and common decency demand responsible reporting.
Clarifying misconceptions, President Muizzu highlighted that the Act only requires journalists to state clearly if information is unverified. “It is written in Dhivehi. If you read it from beginning to end, you will not find anything that takes away freedom” he noted, criticizing those who misrepresent the law without proper review.
The President further pledged that any additional regulations introduced will be designed to strengthen accountability—not restrict rights. “Media professionals will always have their rights. What we ask is responsibility, accuracy, and respect for the truth,” he said.
By placing emphasis on ethical journalism, President Muizzu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to nurturing a free yet responsible press—one that protects both individual dignity and national unity.
