Independent Lawmaker Withdraws Controversial Media Bill Amid Backlash

Independent lawmaker Abdul Hannan Aboobakr has withdrawn a contentious media bill that had been met with widespread criticism for its potential to enable government control over media outlets.

The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission Bill, submitted to Parliament last week, sought to establish a new seven-member regulatory body, replacing the existing Maldives Broadcasting Commission and Maldives Media Council. 

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A spokesperson from People’s Majlis confirmed today that MP Abdul Hannan has requested to withdraw the bill. 

Under the proposal, four of the commission’s members, including its president and vice-president, would have been appointed by the President with parliamentary approval, while the remaining three would be elected by broadcasters and media outlets.

The bill outlined a range of guidelines for broadcasters and media, including safeguarding national security, upholding the legitimacy of the government, and protecting individual dignity and privacy. It also proposed a strict code of ethics for journalists, with penalties including fines of up to MVR 10,000 for individuals and MVR 50,000 for media organisations, as well as licence suspensions and demands for public apologies.

The legislation drew sharp criticism from the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA), opposition parties, and sections of the public. Opponents argued it posed a significant threat to press freedom. The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) accused the government of drafting the bill and using Hannan as a conduit to avoid political fallout.

Public and political resistance mounted rapidly, with South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem (MDP) submitting a resolution in Parliament demanding the bill’s withdrawal. This followed an emergency motion on the matter, which was rejected. Additionally, local media outlets launched a campaign, Hatharehge Haggugai (“In Defence of the Fourth Pillar”), to rally opposition to the bill.

The controversy escalated until President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu addressed the issue during a ceremony marking his administration’s first anniversary on Sunday. President Muizzu distanced himself from the bill, stating that he did not support it and that the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), which holds a supermajority in Parliament, would vote against it.

Hannan’s decision to withdraw the bill today marks a victory for advocates of press freedom.