Maldives Media Council (MMC) has welcomed President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's decision to amend the Evidence Act. Journalists have expressed concern over section 136 of the Evidence Act, which compels journalists to reveal their sources on court orders.
In a press statement, MMC commended President Solih for his decision and highlighted that the council is tasked with establishing an expansive media that can operate freely and responsibly within the established legal boundaries. It stated that section 136 undermines the rights given to journalists in Article 28 of the Constitution of the Maldives and, as such, is of deep concern for the council and the media.
Additionally, MMC noted that the news media is the fourth power of democracy as it is crucial in holding the government accountable. It stated that journalists in the Maldives have expressed concern over the obstacles they face in their work and that President Solih's decision to amend the Evidence Act shows he is willing to listen to criticism and act in order to address and resolve the issues.
At the Maldives Broadcast Award 2022, President Solih announced the decision to amend the Evidence Act, which was ratified in July, in order to address the concerns of journalists. The president noted there were concerns from journalists about the amendments that were brought to section 136(b) of the Evidence Act, and that he has met with journalists to discuss their concerns. He said the administration would address these concerns as it had previously by repealing the Defamation and Freedom of Speech Act which curtailed press freedom.