Maumoon calls for eradication of intimidation against press

Leader of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has alleged that journalists and media stations were being intimidated by sources within the government, and has called out for eradication of any such intimidation and establishment of an environment in which the media can operate freely.

In a statement issued by Maumoon this Monday, he expressed concern over criminal investigations against reporters, and noted that press freedom was one of the most important principles to ensure the rights to citizens, and make the government accountable.

Maumoon said that PPM members were concerned about the continued barriers to press freedom put up by the government.

He voiced concern over the Defamation and Freedom of Speech Act, and alleged that it was an attempt to limit the constitutional right for freedom of speech and press freedom.

“I believe the creation of the defamation law which prescribes strict punishments was an attempt to hide the treasonous and criminal activities of certain individuals and silence the press,” said Maumoon.

Maumoon said he found it unacceptable reporters were being prosecuted and imprisoned despite being repeatedly targeted with acts of violence and intimidation.

He said that RajjeTV reporters; Mohamed Wisam, Leevan Ali Naseer and Adam Zareer were arrested in line of their duty as reporters.

Maumoon also expressed concern over criminal investigation against “Mihaaru” reporter Fazeena Ahmed under the defamation law, and said that a reporter or media station should not be punished for accurately reporting what someone says.

“I therefore ask relevant authorities to drop criminal charges against these reporters,” said Maumoon.

He also spoke about the mystery abduction of reporter Ahmed Rilwan Abdulla, and said that

PPM members felt authorities had not done enough to find out what happened to him.

Maumoon said that it was a dark period for press in Maldives, and appealed to all State authorities to investigate threats and attacks against reporters.