Coverage of the peaceful protest by journalists

The peaceful protest has ended after announcing the petition to the heads of the state due to the obstructions in journalism and a dangerous environment for the journalists with the threats they receive.

Heads of the Maldivian Media outlets are taking part in the ongoing rally.

Points included in the Petition by the Journalists: - Investigation of the threats and attacks against journalists and prosecute those responsible and bring them to justice. These crimes include the arson at RaajjeTV, the brutal attack on the former Head of News at RaajjeTV, Ibrahim Waheed (Aswaad) and that attacks on DhiTV, VTV and Minivan News. - A complete and independent investigation into the case of the missing Minivan News journalist, Ahmed Rilwan Abdulla and bring those responsible to justice.

A petition is being prepare to be submitted at different state institutions at the peaceful protest.

After Ali Yousuf, Nafiz from the shutdown media Haveeru is now speaking. In his speech, he notes that the anti-defamation and freedom of expression bill would obstruct free press.

Journalists are now near Jelly Pizza expressing their voices. And so, Ali Yousuf from RaajjeTV is now speaking.

The protesters are calling to dismiss the anti-defamation bill from the Parliament with implication that it is the biggest threat to journalism in the country.

The writings used in the protest today called for the freedom of the Broadcasting Commission. The signs range from “can write, will write”, “End impunity for crimes against journalists” to “Journalism is not a Crime.”

Live stream of the protest is now available on the Facebook page of Sun.mv.

But the Police have put up a barricade near the Henveiru Stadium infront of Jelly Pizza and stopped the protesters.

The protesters are now walking west towards Rasfannu Beach on Majeedhee Magu.

As the participants of the rally gathered at Artificial Beach, a number of Police officers were active in the area.

The Silent March calling for the freedom of press scheduled to being at 4:30 p.m. has now underway.