Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru has formally withdrawn a bill submitted to the Parliament proposing greater government control over media organizations in the Maldives.s.
The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission Bill, which was first read in the session on the 13th of this month, sought to establish a commission comprising four members appointed by the President and three members representing the media, giving the government a majority control over the commission. The bill also gave the President the power to appoint the President and the Vice President of the commission.
The controversial bill drew criticism, particularly from the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). Following the backlash, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu himself stated that the bill was inconsistent with government policies, emphasizing his commitment to media freedom.
At Tuesday’s Parliament sitting, Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla announced that the bill had been withdrawn in accordance with Parliament rules on November 19.
MP Hannan had earlier explained to the media that he requested to withdraw the bill as it did not align with government policies. He acknowledged that the bill can not be passed without the support of the PNC members in parliament.
