Attorney General Ahmed Usham has pledged to address concerns raised by journalists about a proposed bill to dissolve the Maldives Media Council (MMC) and the Broadcasting Commission (Broadcom). The bill, submitted by Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan, aims to replace the two bodies with a single entity called the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.

The proposed commission would consist of seven members: four appointed by the president with parliamentary approval and three elected by media representatives. The bill is intended to promote press freedom while ensuring journalists exercise their constitutional rights responsibly.

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) expressed concerns that the bill might restrict press freedom. During a meeting with AG Usham, also attended by Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed and Communications Minister at the President’s Office Ibrahim Klaleel, journalists highlighted their grievances. Usham assured them that their concerns would be considered.

Following the meeting, the AG’s office posted on X that AG Usham has assured the concerns of the journalists will be addressed.

MJA Secretary General Ahmed Naif, speaking at a press conference after the meeting, said the AG’s intention seemed to be dissolving the MMC and Broadcom but noted there was no confirmation this would happen. Naif added that while Usham assured journalists of no government interference in the press, the bill’s status remains undecided as it awaits a parliamentary decision.