MMBC Says Threats Against Journalists Cannot Be Ignored, Condemns Online Harassment Over Rasmalé Tour

The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has called for the threats and harassment being made against Maldivian journalists on social media to not be ignored, condemning the actions as irresponsible and potentially life-endangering. The journalists in question had traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the invitation of Eagle Hills Company in connection with the Rasmalé project. The MMBC issued its statement after the matter was already submitted to the police. The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) had also sent a letter to Police Commissioner Ahmed Mohammed on the issue. In its statement, the MMBC strongly condemned the use of insults, harsh language, and threats that could endanger life. The commission also reminded media outlets and broadcasters not to publish content containing derogatory remarks or insulting language that diminishes the reputation of individuals working in the media sector. The MJA letter to the Police Commissioner details that photographs and videos are being circulated on social media to incite hatred against the journalists, who are being labeled as traitors, Zionists, and Jews, and attacked with harsh language. The MJA stated that such attacks on journalists fulfilling their professional responsibilities are unacceptable and have created significant fear among journalists and their families. In its complaint, the MJA requested three actions from the police: an urgent and official investigation into those behind the campaigns, immediate security risk assessments for the affected journalists, and provision of appropriate police protection for the journalists and their family members. MJA President Ahmed Naif commented that no journalist should feel afraid for their safety or their family’s security simply for performing their duties. The MJA has also urged media houses and editors to clearly distinguish between sponsored content and independent news and opinion.