Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture Dr. Mohamed Shainee has called on all local media agencies to be responsible while reporting on the current political situation of the country, as irresponsible reporting has caused irreversible damage to the image of Maldives. Expressing concern on the negative effect on Maldives because of irresponsible journalism, Fisheries Minister Mohamed Shainee noted such acts gravely affects the economy.
In this regard, Fisheries Minister Shainee said Maldives being a country which is highly dependent on foreign investments and the tourism sector, reporting has caused irreversible damage to the country. Highlighting that the true aspects of journalism is staying committed in serving the people while delivering true and authentic news and information, Minister Shainee emphasised that currently it is the responsibility of all media agencies to become a shield against false and baseless rumors spread by the opposition alliance to defame the nation.
"All media should be responsible in what they report and any call from anyone should not regardless of what it is should not be broadcasted. One has to exercise their right with responsibility as well and it is sad because at the end of the day it is the country that will be hurt, because our economy is dependent on tourist arriving in the country," Minister Shainee said.
Refuting rumors that Maldives is in danger of foreign invasion, the Fisheries Minister cited that Maldives has maintained and advanced relations with the international community in the past four years. On this note, Minister Shainee said the close allies of Maldives, such as China and India, standing alongside the current administration during the current political situation testifies the successful foreign policy implemented by President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.
"The government of India has not intervened into the situation. They have not called for military intervention. The Indian government knows very well that Maldives would not do anything to harm the stability of the country and the stability of the neighborhood because the stability of each one is important for ocean's security," Minister Shainee explained.
Briefing on the declaration of the State of Emergency on February 5, Minister Shainee said the administration was compelled to intervene into a situation created by the Maldivian Judiciary as President Yameen pays the highest regard to the constitution. Minister Shainee concluded by reiterating the commitment of President Yameen in staying loyal to the citizens and abiding by the Maldivian constitution, rules and regulations.