News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu has called on journalists to distinguish between professional reporting and political activism, urging the media to uphold standards of fairness and responsibility while exercising press freedom.
Speaking to residents of the Maafannu ward in Male, President Muizzu said his administration had offered more opportunities to journalists than any previous government, but stressed that those opportunities came with obligations. “It is not journalism to say that a newspaper’s editorial is an anti-government policy,” he said, adding that such declarations undermine professionalism.
The president argued that journalism should not be conducted by “a particular hand,” warning that when reporting becomes partisan, it crosses into activism. “Every story has to bring two sides. You have to be honest. There is a backlash,” he said.
On press freedom, President Muizzu pointed to the commission established under the newly enacted Media Act, noting that it has not taken action against any outlet. He said the government would not restrict anyone from speaking, describing press freedom as “free and wide open.”
At the same time, President Muizzu emphasized that his government would not permit speech that violates the Constitution, contravenes the limits of Islam, or damages reputations. He recalled his recent meeting with journalists, saying he stayed until all their questions were answered.
