Speaker of the Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla has announced the withdrawal of a bill to abolish the Maldives Media Council (MMC) and the Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom). The bill proposed creating a new body, the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission, which would have given more control to the President.

The bill, introduced by MP Abdul Hannan Abubakuru of Thulhaadhoo constituency, was withdrawn on 19 May after the MP stated his intention to do so. The Speaker explained that President Mohamed Muizzu’s comments on the bill made it clear the Parliament would not support it, and withdrawing it would save time.

The bill aimed to regulate media operations, promote press freedom, and ensure responsible journalism. It proposed a commission of seven members, with four appointed by the President and three elected by the media. Only media organisations registered for five years in the Maldives would have been allowed to vote in these elections.

The bill also included provisions to penalise media outlets and journalists for violating rules, with fines ranging from MVR 5,000 to MVR 50,000. It allowed the commission to suspend or cancel licences for content deemed harmful to Islam, national security, or public health.