The Broadcasting Commission of Maldives has urged all broadcasters to refrain from airing campaign-related content during the restricted period outlined by Article 44(h) of the General Elections Act. According to this provision, any activity in support of any candidate is prohibited from 6:00 pm on the day before polling day until 6:00 am on the day following polling day.
Consequently, the commission has provided guidance to all broadcasters, advising them not to broadcast any campaign-related activities associated with the candidates competing in the presidential election scheduled for September 9, 2023, nor any content aimed at soliciting support for these candidates during the period from 1800hrs today until 0600hrs on Sunday.
In an exclusive interview with PSM News, President of the Broadcasting Commission, Mariyam Waheedha, highlighted the critical role broadcasters and journalists play in addressing significant national issues. She stressed the importance of ensuring equitable access to election-related information for the public, irrespective of differing opinions.
Mariyam Waheedha further revealed that the commission has initiated monitoring of broadcast programmes for the candidates as soon as their names are announced. She said they are committed to providing equal opportunities to all candidates during the electoral process, and she announced that a special report would be published after the elections, including the commission's findings.
The Broadcasting Commission has also urged all broadcasters to be vigilant as broadcasting in violation of the General Elections Act is a violation of Article 1(2) of the Code of Practice on Broadcasting.