MJA Seeks to Nullify Media Regulation Law, Requests Temporary Court Order

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has submitted a constitutional case to the High Court of the Maldives, requesting to void the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act, in addition to seeking a temporary court order to prevent the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission from taking action against media outlets until the case is concluded.

The association announced the legal action at a press conference held today, citing the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission’s recent decision against Adhadhu News. The commission stated that Siyaasee Cartoon Volume 22, published by the outlet, violated the tenets of Islam and instructed Adhadhu to remove the cartoon from all its platforms. Adhadhu has denied violating Islamic principles and said it has requested clarification from the commission. The cartoon remains accessible on its platforms.

MJA President Naaif Ahmed said the commission’s action sets a precedent that could be applied to all media organisations in the Maldives. He argued that due process had not been followed and that the notice issued by the commission was unconstitutional. On this basis, the association has asked the High Court to issue a temporary order preventing the commission from taking further action until the case is resolved.

“It was Adhadhu today, it could be Mihaaru tomorrow,” Naaif said, referring to other major media outlets in the country.

Speaking at the press conference, MJA legal representative Ahmed Mauroof criticised the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act, saying it suppresses freedom of expression through vague provisions. He said several actions are deemed illegal under the law without being clearly defined, granting the commission broad and largely unchecked powers. Mauroof added that the case aims to hold the commission accountable under constitutional rights, noting that the commission’s governing law requires proper investigations before enforcement action is taken. He said the commission has not clearly specified the violation or issue in this case.

Lawyer and former Kendhoo MP Ali Hussain also addressed the press, arguing that the media act undermines constitutional freedoms, including media freedom and freedom of expression. He said the Constitution permits restrictions only where actions clearly contradict the fundamental principles of Islam, and that the commission’s actions exceed those limits.

Ali further argued that the cartoon addresses a social issue rather than a religious matter and therefore does not contravene Islamic principles. He said social problems, including misconduct in public spaces, are recognised realities and should not automatically be treated as religious violations when depicted in commentary or satire.

He also raised concerns about the absence of a clear investigation or review process in the commission’s decision. According to the MJA, the law applies not only to registered media outlets but also broadly to social media and individual online expression, affecting the wider public.

On these grounds, the MJA has asked the High Court to issue a temporary order to suspend the commission’s enforcement powers under the law until the constitutional case is determined.