Maleeh: Development of press crucial for development of democracy

The development and progress of the press is crucial for development of the principles of modern democracy, says Minister of Communications, Science and Technology, Mohamed Maleeh Jamaal.

Speaking at the inauguration of a workshop held at Hotel Jen on occasion of Press Freedom Day this Thursday, Minister Maleeh stressed that press was the fourth pillar of democracy.

“Everyone has the right to media, same as everyone has the right to democracy. Media empowerment is essential to establishing an independent and empowered society,” said Maleeh.

Maleeh also said that the press was the mirror to the performance of the State, and said that the State was ready to make the local press a reliable partner to establish democracy in Maldives.

He said that the local press needed to be allowed room and opportunity to upgrade and modernize their platforms.

Maleeh also spoke of the importance of digital technology in deliverance of news, especially during national elections. But he also pointed out that the widespread use of digital technology had led to an increase in spread of fake news and information – which he said was a great challenge to democracy.

Maleeh unveiled the Asia Press Freedom Report during this Thursday’s event.