Friday
26th Apr 2024
Dhivehi Edition
Maldives Police Service obstructing journalists.
International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has raised alarm over attacks on journalists in the country.
The largest independent journalist is the largest advocacy group for journalists globally.
A statement released by the group said that they were aware of attacks on journalists. These journalists, the group added, were on duty covering the opposition-led “India Out” protests in the capital.
IFJ quoted Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) and other media sources, adding that ‘a police officer named ‘Solih’ threatened and harassed journalists and media workers during their coverage of an ‘India Out’ protest held on May 18.’
IFJ noted that the “India Out” campaign had started in 2020 and was championed by the opposition. The statement also makes note that the movement had been criminalized this year and that protests have continued in spite of the criminalization.
IFJ noted that the “India Out” campaign had started in 2020 and was championed by the opposition. The statement also makes note that the movement had been criminalized this year and that protests have continued in spite of the criminalization.
“Harassment and threats to journalists in the field contravene the right to freedom of expression enshrined in the Maldives’ constitution. Journalists must be allowed to operate in the field without fear of attack or persecution. The IFJ urges the Maldivian government to act swiftly to investigate the case and arrest the perpetrators.”International Federation of Journalists
IFJ’s South Asia Press Freedom Report 2021-22, recorded just two media rights violations in the Maldives from May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022, but noted a legacy of interference in media regulators and a history of impunity for crimes against journalists.