President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that no one should have to face defamation and that the issue is not one open to debate.

His remarks come after Parliament passed the Media Commission Bill, which has faced strong opposition from journalists. Reporters staged protests for several days, while a petition submitted to both Parliament and the President’s Office calling for the bill’s rejection was dismissed by MPs.

Speaking on Rayyithunna Eku podcast about the bill, President Dr Muizzu stressed that freedom of expression should not come at the cost of harming others. He said Islam places great emphasis on protecting individuals from defamation, noting that dignity is a right bestowed by Allah and must be safeguarded by everyone.

The President added that while Maldivians have the right to express opinions, write freely and create content, spreading false information is not in line with the wishes or values of the Maldivian people.