Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has called for the immediate withdrawal of the government-backed bill to dismantle free press in the Maldives.
In a statement, the association said the bill was designed and proposed without consultation with journalists and journalism associations in the country. The RSF also said the bill directly threatens the country's democracy.
"“This bill is a direct attack on press freedom in the Maldives. By entrusting media regulation to a commission under the direct influence of the executive branch and introducing disproportionate penalties, it will encourage censorship," said Célia Mercier, Head of the RSF South Asia Desk.
She noted that the commission could "block news websites without a court order, concentrating the powers of prosecution, judgement and enforcement without external oversight."
"RSF calls on the Maldives parliament to immediately withdraw this bill, engage in genuine consultation with journalists and professional organisations, and guarantee an independent self-regulation mechanism in line with democratic principles."
Other international organizations such as the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) have also called for the withdrawal of the bill.
The new Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission will be established if the bill is approved by the government-controlled People's Majlis. The commission will be made up of seven members, three of whom will be appointed by the President.
The bill does not explain why a commission to regulate the media needs members appointed by the President. It further states that the Chairperson of the commission will also be appointed by the President.
The bill gives the new commission substantial powers. These include fines of up to MVR 100,000 for media outlets and temporary cancellation of registration before a case is investigated. The commission can also go to court to revoke a registration.
The commission will also be empowered to issue orders to block a news website or stop a broadcast while it investigates a case.
On Thursday, the government said there was no reason to withdraw the bill despite concern from journalists, NGOs and political parties.
Attorney General Ahmed Usham made the remarks after the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) met President Mohamed Muizzu and requested for the bill to be withdrawn.
"We believe, I believe, our opinion is that the bill can be improved after further review. I do not believe that the bill should be withdrawn," Usham said.
