Attorney General Ahmed Usham has stated that the proposed Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill may be revised, but he does not believe it should be withdrawn.
Usham made the remarks at a press conference held to address concerns raised by journalists regarding the bill.
The Attorney General explained that the primary purpose of the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill is to merge the Maldives Media Council (MMC) and the Maldives Broadcasting Commission, noting that previous Parliaments also attempted to bring about such a reform. Usham said official documents at the Attorney General’s Office attest to this, and that many studies have been conducted regarding the matter.
Usham said the concerns of journalists regarding the bill can be addressed by reviewing the draft bill and bringing about amendments.
"When I examined the provisions of the bill, the work carried out by the Attorney General's Office and the proposals of various parties, my opinion is that the current bill can be improved. I do not believe the bill should be withdrawn,” the Attorney General said.
The Attorney General also explained why he does not believe the current draft bill should be withdrawn. He noted that the bill drafted and sent to the Attorney General's Office by the Maldives Media Council in 2022 is not significantly different from the current draft. He said he believes MMC’s bill was drafted following consultation and research.
Usham highlighted the main point of contention for journalists, which is the inclusion of government representatives on the new commission. According to Usham, the initial draft by MMC also proposed including two members appointed by the President to the commission, whereas the current draft introduces an additional safeguard by requiring parliamentary approval for members.
The Attorney General further emphasised that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu does not wish to have presidential appointees on the commission. Usham said he would communicate this position to the Parliament.
In addition, the Attorney General said that the MMC had previously proposed a bill that was stricter than the current version. These included higher fines and provisions for criminal investigation against journalists, he noted, adding that the present draft does not enable criminal investigations against journalists.
The Attorney General said that he will review the bill and submit changes to Parliament where necessary. He urged journalists to focus on improving the bill and cooperating to reform the bill, instead of advocating for its withdrawal.
The Attorney General added that concerns regarding the bill have not yet been formally submitted to the Attorney General's Office. He reiterated that he would look into the matter if such a concern is submitted, and assured that he would propose changes if needed.