Control Commission orders Channel 13 to stop live coverage of PNF protests

Apr 28, 2026, 10:46 AM
The sofa placed at the PNF protest -- Photo: Theyra Online

The sofa placed at the PNF protest -- Photo: Theyra Online

The Maldives Media Broadcasting Commission (Control Commission) has ordered Channel 13 to cease its live coverage of the ongoing series of street protests organized by former President Abdulla Yameen’s People’s National Front (PNF).

According to reports, the commission issued the directive to Channel 13 in connection with an ongoing investigation. While the details of the case have not been disclosed, the channel has been instructed to halt live coverage of the demonstrations until a final decision is reached on the matter.

This is not the first time the broadcaster has faced such restrictions. On September 17, 2025, the Maldives Broadcasting Commission (Broadcom) suspended Channel 13’s broadcast for two hours following an investigation. Additionally, in August 2025, the channel was ordered to stop broadcasting just as it prepared to air a rally featuring former President Yameen.

The PNF has been holding its protests near the Artificial Beach. During one of these demonstrations, police briefly confiscated a sofa that had been placed on the street by protesters.

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the PNF began their anti-government protests following the administration’s losses in the local council elections and the recent referendum.

Both the MDP and PNF maintain that President Mohamed Muizzu must resign and that a transitional government should be established in the Maldives.

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