President Muizzu Backs Media Bill, Commission Chair to Be Chosen by Media Vote

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his commitment to a free and independent press, announcing that he has requested amendments to the Media Commission Bill currently under review in the People's Majlis. The bill, submitted by independent MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru for Thulhaadhoo constituency, proposes a seven-member commission with three members appointed by the President and four elected by media organizations. Under the current draft, the President would also appoint the commission's chairperson. Speaking during a visit to Nolhivaranfaru in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, President Muizzu made clear that he does not seek authority over the media, stating that the commission's chairperson should instead be chosen through a vote among commission members. He emphasized that media independence is essential for democracy, transparency, and national progress. The bill also proposes stricter penalties for violations of the media code of conduct, with fines ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 100,000 for outlets and MVR 5,000 to MVR 25,000 for individual journalists. The Majlis would retain the authority to dismiss members elected by media organizations.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his commitment to a free and independent press, announcing that he has requested amendments to the Media Commission Bill currently under review in the People's Majlis. The bill, submitted by independent MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru for Thulhaadhoo constituency, proposes a seven-member commission with three members appointed by the President and four elected by media organizations. Under the current draft, the President would also appoint the commission's chairperson. Speaking during a visit to Nolhivaranfaru in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, President Muizzu made clear that he does not seek authority over the media, stating that the commission's chairperson should instead be chosen through a vote among commission members. He emphasized that media independence is essential for democracy, transparency, and national progress. The bill also proposes stricter penalties for violations of the media code of conduct, with fines ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 100,000 for outlets and MVR 5,000 to MVR 25,000 for individual journalists. The Majlis would retain the authority to dismiss members elected by media organizations.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his commitment to a free and independent press, announcing that he has requested amendments to the Media Commission Bill currently under review in the People's Majlis. The bill, submitted by independent MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru for Thulhaadhoo constituency, proposes a seven-member commission with three members appointed by the President and four elected by media organizations. Under the current draft, the President would also appoint the commission's chairperson. Speaking during a visit to Nolhivaranfaru in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, President Muizzu made clear that he does not seek authority over the media, stating that the commission's chairperson should instead be chosen through a vote among commission members. He emphasized that media independence is essential for democracy, transparency, and national progress. The bill also proposes stricter penalties for violations of the media code of conduct, with fines ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 100,000 for outlets and MVR 5,000 to MVR 25,000 for individual journalists. The Majlis would retain the authority to dismiss members elected by media organizations.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of media independence / media bill.