Broadcom to Investigate TV Content Aired Mocking PWDs
Photo: Raajje TV
The Maldives Broadcasting Commission (Broadcom) is investigating content broadcasted on television on Monday evening where politicians mocked people with autism and Down Syndrome.
On Monday evening, during RaajjeTV’s Kalaabaisa program, Former Nolhivaram MP Mohamed Nasheed Abdulla (Mosta) and former Colonel Ahmed Fayaz Ali Riza likened President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to a child with autism and Down syndrome while discussing political issues. They insinuated “there is an issue with his brain.” Along with the host, the two guests laughed over this issue, making light of people with these diagnoses.
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This led to public outrage over the issue, where people were not only taking issue with what the guests were saying but with RaajjeTV for broadcasting such content.
Regarding this issue, Broadcom said in a post on Facebook that they have received information that a television program has broadcasted content that violates Article 35 of the Maldivian constitution that protects children, the elderly and people with disabilities, in addition to the Code of Practice guideline formulated under Article 37 of the Broadcasting Act.
“The commission will be investigating such content and will be taking the harshest action possible against those guilty,” Broadcom said.
Broadcom additionally called on all broadcasters to follow regulations and to maintain the dignity of the people when they broadcast their content.
