Broadcasting regulator admits bias, rejects press freedom index

The president of the Maldives Broadcasting Commission on Thursday conceded bias in inquiries initiated by his colleagues.

Some inquiries were launched without complaints being submitted, Mohamed Shaheeb told the press, including one case that led to an MVR1 million (US$64,850) fine imposed on Raajje TV for airing a speech that was deemed defamatory towards President Abdulla Yameen.

Shaheeb admitted a lack of impartiality when asked why defamation of opposition figures by pro-government media went unpunished. Inquiries launched by MBC members should not have targeted a single broadcaster, he said.

“I’m saying no political figure exerted any influence over me in any matter,” Shaheeb insisted, deferring to other members on questions over their independence.