Minister Ahmed Shiyam Urges Ethical Journalism Amid Attacks on President Muizzu

Fisheries, Agriculture, and Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam has called for a higher standard of ethical journalism, warning that press freedom should not be used as a shield for slander and misinformation. In a detailed statement shared on social media, Minister Shiyam emphasized that while freedom of expression and press freedom are fundamental constitutional rights, they are not absolute. He argued that these liberties must be balanced against the equally guaranteed rights to privacy and the protection of an individual's reputation. Addressing recent allegations, the Minister specifically highlighted the gravity of false accusations of adultery, referencing the Islamic legal concept of Qazf. He noted that under Shari'ah, protecting a person's reputation is a core principle, and that the high standard of evidence required for such accusations must be respected in public discourse. "It is unacceptable to slander people’s reputation, and particularly the reputation of the head of an Islamic state, in the name of freedom of expression and press," Minister Shiyam stated, describing such behavior as contrary to the values of Maldivian society. Despite his condemnation of recent attacks, the Minister maintained that the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu remains committed to a free press. He asserted that the government will not interfere with journalistic independence and that the President continues to work closely with members of the media. Minister Shiyam concluded by stating that the President is currently the target of unjust attacks. He urged journalists to prioritize the delivery of verified information, ensuring that the exercise of free speech does not deprive others of their dignity or tarnish their names through unverified claims.