Minister Mohamed Saeed Calls for Balance Between Press Freedom and Mutual Respect

Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Transport Mohamed Saeed has asserted that the exercise of press freedom in the Maldives must be balanced with mutual respect and ethical responsibility. Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office, Minister Saeed responded to inquiries regarding the current state of media freedom in the country. While acknowledging that a broad scope of freedom exists and that media outlets are reporting on a wide array of issues, he emphasized that this right does not grant immunity from responsibility. Minister Saeed argued that the rights of journalists to report must be weighed against the rights of the individuals being reported on. He specifically condemned the use of anonymous articles and remarks targeting President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his family, stating that Maldivian journalists should not resort to such tactics. Drawing on the nation's cultural and religious identity, the Minister noted that as a 100 percent Muslim nation, the Maldives must uphold high standards of respect. He cautioned against the practice of character assassination hidden behind anonymity, questioning the societal impact when individuals are shamed to the point that their families struggle to appear in public. Despite these criticisms, the Minister maintained that the Maldives provides ample space for journalists to address critical issues across the social, economic, and infrastructural sectors. He described journalism and freedom of expression as vital components of national development, provided they are practiced with integrity. Minister Saeed concluded his remarks by condemning a perceived lack of ethical standards during certain public gatherings, reiterating that freedom of expression should not be conflated with the license to damage reputations without accountability.