MJA Expresses Concern Over Channel 13 Broadcast Suspension During Opposition Rally
Photo: BroadCom
The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has expressed concern over the Broadcasting Commission of Maldives (BroadCom)’s order for Channel 13 to cease broadcasting during the People’s National Front (PNF) rally in Malé.
MJA condemns the Broadcasting Commission's suspension of @Channel13mv. This punitive action, timed to block a live political broadcast, is a direct threat to press freedom and an act of intimidation.
We also call for transparency and the withdrawal of the new Media Control Bill. pic.twitter.com/RMIeN0dgNQ— Maldives Journalists Association (@mjamaldives) August 22, 2025advertisement
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The suspension order, issued on 11 August, followed an investigation launched by BroadCom in January. The period of suspension coincided with Channel 13’s scheduled live coverage of the opposition rally, which featured strong criticism of the government. MJA noted that the timing raised questions about whether the decision was politically motivated to block coverage of the event.
MJA stated that BroadCom claimed to be unaware of the channel’s planned live broadcast, although the rally had been publicly announced and promoted. The Association argued that the suspension undermines the Commission’s impartiality and represents an act of media intimidation. It further described the move as an obstruction of the public’s right to information.
According to MJA, this was the first time in recent history that BroadCom had imposed such a penalty on a broadcaster. The Association also highlighted that the order was based on a case investigated by the Commission on its own initiative rather than in response to a formal complaint. It warned that such discretionary powers could be open to abuse and could place undue pressure on the media.
MJA criticised the lack of transparency in BroadCom’s investigative process and called for all media complaints to be handled through open hearings to ensure fairness. It also cautioned that the proposed Media Bill currently before Parliament risked creating a culture of censorship by giving authorities greater power to shut down outlets and control content.
Despite the suspension order, Channel 13 went ahead with its planned live coverage of the PNF rally and aired preparations leading up to the event.
In response, BroadCom stated that its action against Channel 13 was based on content broadcast on 30 January 2025, which was found to have violated the Code of Broadcasting Practice. The Commission said it had followed the powers granted under Section 44(n) of the Broadcasting Act, issuing the suspension notice after the channel failed to comply with prior instructions to broadcast an apology.
The Commission also criticised MJA for publicly releasing information without including details provided by BroadCom, stating that the press release had created a misleading impression of the Commission’s independence. BroadCom emphasised that it operates in line with international best practices and remains committed to protecting the interests of the broadcasting industry and the public while maintaining its independence.
