PPM condemns harassment of Channel 13 reporter

The ruling party has condemned the harassment of a Channel 13 journalist during the pro-government TV station’s live coverage of Friday’s opposition protest.

Footage shows irate protesters yell into Aminath Layal’s microphone and chant for President Abdulla Yameen’s resignation as she accuses them of obstructing press freedom. Protesters also sparred with a male Channel 13 employee who was filming them up close on his phone.

“We call on behalf of this party for the opposition to immediately stop illegal actions on the streets of Malé that cause disruption for citizens and especially the harassment of those engaged in the field of independent journalism and to allow space for press freedom,” the Progressive Party of Maldives said in a statement.

Opposition-aligned stations and staff have also condemned the incident while some opposition supporters argued on social media that the reporter provoked protesters.

Excellent work by @Ch13official and it's journalists in covering the illegal actions of the opposition, despite the harassment, intimidation and obstruction to independent journalism by the opposition.

— Dr.Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) March 2, 2018

You can see how MDP is supporting women’s right! 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/NhqZ2X7HPn

— Xahid Creator (@xahidcreator) March 2, 2018

Thank you @alayalm for delivering facts as on the ground to the public. Opposition is desperate to create violence. @Ch13official is doing a great job. RaajjeTV 👎#MaldivesInCrisis #MaldivesCrisis #StateOfEmergencyMV pic.twitter.com/G5HToAG3WS

— Dr. Abdulla Khaleel 🌐 (@abkhaleel) March 2, 2018

Journalists must get the chance to report without any intimidation. Even @Ch13official journalists must get this chance.
Komme bayaku kuriyas goas vaanee goahah!#Journalismisnotacrime

— Azmoon Ahmed 🇲🇻 (@azmoon_ahmed) March 2, 2018

Exactly! 🙏 Harassing the journalists covering these protests is unacceptable, at the same time journalists should be professional & let the protestors raise their voice for the cause ☝️

— 𝕍𝕚𝕛𝕒𝕒𝕟 (@vijaaan) March 2, 2018