President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has underscored the society will face chaos and demean the flourishing democracy in the country, if the media failed to provide the public with genuine information.
In the national address commemorating World Press Freedom Day 2019, President Solih noted the need of expressing constructive criticism on the conduct of the state. On the same note, the president said the leaders of the state should be answerable to criticism and bring necessary changes. However, noting freedom of expression is a right and that there are responsibilities directly connected to the right, President Solih talked about the importance of constructive criticism and delivering genuine information to eliminate any unnecessary havoc. He also reminisced the disappeared journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rasheed, who was brutally murdered, for their uncountable efforts to ensure freedom of expression in Maldives.
Highlighting from the beginning of time, Maldives had a tradition of keeping freedom of press in the power fist of the government, President Solih noted freedom of media was chained via Anti-Defamation Act, when the administration took office last November. He highlighted the improvements made in the World Press Freedom Index.
In this regard, Maldives had jumped 22 ranks higher in the annual Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders. This is the first time in the past 6 years, Maldives have seen such remarkable improvements in its score. While the rankings compiled by Reporters Without Borders consisted of 180 countries, Maldives is listed at 98. Last year, Maldives was listed as 120 which makes this year's score 22 ranks higher than that of last year.
Moreover, highlighting the first bill ratified by him was annulation of Anti-Defamation Act, President Solih expressed freedom of expression and press is once again ensured to eliminate any wrongdoings of the government as well as to protect the government from corruption and bribery.
Continuing on, the president underscored the government wishes to provide the press an independent environment and ensure safety and security of the journalists. He assured no journalist will be held in custody over articles written or for expressing their view on an issue.