Following persistent and numerous complaints from the general public on the broadcasting of its daily programme “Madiseela” by Channel 13, which contained inaccurate and misleading information concerning the Covid-19 situation in the Maldives, the Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC) on 19 March 2020, decided to censure the Channel 13 news outlet. The investigation conducted by the MBC revealed the programme had created widespread panic and fear amongst the public, and that the content that was broadcast was inaccurate, false and unsubstantiated.
Despite repeated appeals by the Government to cease, and to ensure that accurate information be provided to the public during the health emergency that has been declared in the country, Channel 13 had failed to observe principles of fair reporting and responsible journalism. The MBC’s action was taken in the interest of public safety and well-being in responding to an issue of grave public concern.
The MBC found that Channel 13 had failed to uphold principles of responsible journalism in its reporting of the news, and in light of the public health emergency, the MBC ruled that Channel 13 shall refrain from broadcasting their ‘Madiseela’ programme for the duration of the declared health emergency. It also ruled that Channel 13 shall not broadcast on any of its programmes information relating to Covid-19, other than the information that has been disseminated by the relevant state authorities.
The actions taken by the MBC in no way impedes on individuals right to freedom of opinion and expression, nor does it obstruct freedom of the press. The Government calls on all news outlets to be responsible and accountable in its reporting, to mitigate panic and fear under these challenging circumstances.
ENDS