Maldives Media Council Appoints New Members to Strengthen Press Freedom

The Maldives Media Council (MMC) has appointed 10 new members to its 15-member body, with the elections filling seven seats from the media sector and three from the general public. The council, tasked with preserving and promoting press freedom within the legal framework, operates under a two-year term for its members.

The newly elected media representatives hail from Aafathis, Vaguthu, Hathaavees, Mihaaru, Dhiyares, hafsy.com, and Thiladhun. Representing the general public are Fathimath Fahmy, Ibrahim Fauzy, and Ibrahim Mohamed.

The MMC Act allows journalists from all media outlets, regardless of publication frequency, to participate in the elections. This year’s election saw participation from journalists and media personnel across 139 outlets, spanning television, radio, online newspapers, and magazines. For the general public seats, the law does not mandate prior media experience.

Beyond its role in safeguarding press freedom, the MMC hosts annual journalism awards and collaborates with media entities to ensure adherence to ethical reporting standards. In the Maldives, media regulation is divided between the MMC and the Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC), which oversees broadcasters. This dual regulatory framework, despite substantial state investment, has raised concerns over enforcement and efficiency.

Previously, the government proposed merging the MMC and MBC into a unified Media and Broadcasting Commission to streamline regulation. However, widespread backlash and concerns led to the withdrawal of the bill from the People's Majlis.