The Parliament of the Maldives has passed the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulatory Bill (Media Bill) during a sitting held this afternoon, despite ongoing protests by journalists.

The sitting was marked by heated scenes, with opposition MPs displaying banners and creating loud disruptions. Six opposition members were expelled from the chamber, including South Galolhu MP Meekail Naseem, Keyodhoo MP Ibrahim Niushad, South Hulhumalé MP Ahmed Shamheed, North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim, Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, and Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Ziyad.

The bill, submitted by Independent MP Abdul Hannan, was passed following a review by the Committee on Independent Institutions. MDA MP Mohamed Abbas was the only member who voted against it. A total of 72 amendments were proposed during the committee stage, many of them introduced by Deputy Chair Kelaa MP Abdulla Shareef. Four further amendments were submitted by the ruling PNC during today’s sitting.

Key changes included removing provisions that gave the commission powers to suspend media outlets during investigations, as well as revising the process for electing members of the commission. Under the new rules, three members will be appointed by Parliament, while four will be elected by the media. Eligibility to vote in these elections has also been clarified, extending the right to broadcasters, outlets, and journalists meeting certain experience requirements.

Despite these changes, many concerns raised by journalists remain unresolved. Protesters outside Parliament continued to call for the bill to be rejected entirely, arguing that it still contains provisions that restrict freedom of expression, particularly on social media.

Committee Chair and Maafushi MP Hussain Riza stated that the bill was passed with unanimous consensus among committee members after incorporating the Counsel General’s recommendations.