Journalists have begun protesting against the "Media Regulation Bill" currently submitted to the People's Majlis.

The bill is being debated in today's extraordibnary Majlis sitting.

As the Majlis session began today, journalists gathered outside the Majlis building, holding boards expressing their sentiments in protest. Journalists are calling for the bill to be rejected and withdrawn, asserting that they won't allow restrictions on press freedom. Some journalists have also started protesting in the Majlis gallery.

Journalists are conducting a major campaign calling for the rejection of the bill. They are also preparing a petition against the bill.

The bill was submitted to the Majlis by independent member Abdul Hannan Abubakur of Thulhadhoo constituency.

According to the bill, the seven-member commission will consist of three members appointed by the President and four members elected by media outlets. The President has the power to appoint the commission's chairperson, while the vice chairperson is elected by commission members through voting.

The bill states that media outlets repeatedly violating the code of conduct set by the commission can be fined between MVR 5,000 and MVR 100,000, while media workers and journalists can be fined between MVR 5,000 and MVR 25,000.

Additionally, the bill gives the Majlis the power to dismiss members elected by media outlets.

During his ongoing trip to HDh. Atoll islands, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu spoke about the bill at a meeting held in Nolhivaranfaru.

The President said he has requested to amend the part of the bill that gives the President the power to appoint the commission's chairperson, stating that he never wants to control the media.