A government initiative meant to strengthen journalism and support struggling media outlets has been dragged into scandal, as State Minister Ali Shamaan faces accusations of twisting the process for his own gain. The Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts Ministry announced that 18 media outlets will receive a combined 27.9 million rufiyaa from the state budget. The goal was to help ensure diverse and independent media in the Maldives. Instead, bad actors within the system have cast a dark shadow over the effort.
Documents reveal that The Press will collect MVR 1,348,796.65 from the funding. The Press is directly managed by Ali Shamaan, the same official who created the criteria, handled the screening and approved the final list. The situation demonstrates a blatant conflict of interest, transforming a national support program into a personal benefit scheme.
Multiple newsrooms report that their applications were first approved, only to be rejected suddenly during the final selection. No proper reasoning was given. Journalists argue this was a targeted attempt to block outlets not aligned with Shamaan’s political interests.
Media leaders stress that the government launched the fund to enable freedom of information and stronger media institutions. However, one individual’s misuse of authority risks destroying this vision. What should have been a fair opportunity for all qualifying outlets now appears to be a reward system controlled from within the Ministry.
Media leaders are urging swift action. They demand that Shamaan be held accountable so that the original purpose of the initiative can be restored.
