SS Media team slams govt-backed Media Control Bill

The government-affiliated parliamentary member for Thulhaadhoo has introduced a bill aimed at 'controlling' the media. The government, along with the majority People’s National Congress (PNC) members, have expressed support for the bill.

Sun's editorial podcast on Tuesday dedicated to the bill elucidated Sun's stance on the proposed legislation.

During the podcast, Sun Online Managing Editor Ahmed Saail Ali asserted that the bill poses a significant threat to journalistic freedom. He noted that the only acceptable aspect of the bill is its header. Saail Ali also suggested that withdrawing the bill would be more straightforward than attempting to amend it.

Deputy Managing Editor Ahmed Inah stated that the bill is inherently invalid, emphasizing that no country globally has achieved 'good results' from efforts to control the media. Consequently, he argued, the bill is not enforceable.

Meanwhile, former Media Council member Ahmed Azif, who leads SS Media's current affairs, contended that media should not be 'controlled' under the guise of preventing slander. He highlighted the existence of current legal remedies for reputation protection and action against slander. Azif proposed the withdrawal of the current bill and the introduction of new legislation developed in consultation with media professionals.

In the podcast, Sun's Multimedia Editor Mohamed Nail Hafeez voiced concerns that the proposed law amendments, which include fines for individual journalists and potential closure of media outlets, would deter new journalists from entering the field, creating an unstable working environment. He stressed that the government should not be involved in media regulation.

Assistant Editor Shaaniha Shareef also raised concerns about the bill's provisions, pointing out ongoing difficulties in accessing information and asserting that the bill would stifle the free press.

Therefore, Sun’s editorial team, in its podcast, called for the immediate passage of the bill, stating it is invalid in nature.