Journalists and Public Protest Outside Parliament Against Media Regulation Bill

Journalists and members of the public gathered outside parliament today to protest against the proposed Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, which is expected to be passed during an extraordinary sitting scheduled for the recess.

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) organised the protest, calling for the withdrawal of the bill, which has been dubbed the “Media Control Bill” by journalists and civil society. The bill was approved by the parliament’s Committee on Independent Institutions yesterday with 72 amendments.

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Maldives Police Service officers were present at the scene, with access roads to the parliament blocked. Videos circulating online show police using force against some journalists, including Adhadhu journalist Ahmed Aaidh.

Press freedom in Maldives! pic.twitter.com/14qK0nvgRG— Luke (@lucasjalyl) September 16, 2025

Speakers at the protest voiced opposition to the bill, with participants arguing that it threatens press freedom. Nahudha Faiz, journalist at Dhiyares, said while speaking at the protest that the journalists have worked to hold previous administrations accountable, and they will continue to maintain that standard when addressing the current administration as well.

Since the bill was first introduced by Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, the Independent MP for Thulhaadhoo, journalists have called for its complete withdrawal, saying it cannot be amended in a way that protects media freedom. On 3 September, the MJA submitted a petition signed by 151 Maldivian journalists to both parliament and President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, urging that the bill be scrapped.

Previously, journalists protested outside the parliament as well, urging parliamentarians to reject the bill.