The US Embassy has called on President Mohamed Muizzu's administration not to interfere with the right to freedom of expression.
In a post on X, the embassy said the "United States supports freedom of expression, including for journalists, as a fundamental freedom."
"We urge the Maldives and all countries to uphold the freedoms of expression, including dissenting and opposition voices," the post read.
The government today exploited its super majority in the parliament to push through a draconian legislation aimed at restricting freedom of expression and speech in the Maldives.
The People's Majlis, which acts as a rubber stamp for Muizzu's government, approved the bill despite concerns by the local journalist community and international organisations.
Journalists have been protesting near the parliament building since this morning. Police used excessive force to push back the peaceful protestors, detaining Adhadhu journalist Leevan Ali Nasir and injuring several others.
