The United Kingdom (UK) has urged the Maldivian government to honor its commitments to protecting free and responsible media, following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s ratification of a contentious bill granting extensive government control over media outlets.

In a statement posted on the official ‘X’ account of the British High Commission in the Maldives, the UK emphasized that both nations are signatories to the Samoa Agreement, which underscores the critical role of free and independent media in democratic governance. The High Commission called on the Maldivian authorities to respect and uphold these shared international commitments.

Similarly, the United States Embassy expressed deep concern, stressing the significance of safeguarding freedom of expression in the Maldives. The U.S. highlighted the need for ensuring platforms where opposition voices and dissenting opinions can be heard without fear of repression.

These international appeals come amid growing alarm over the bill, which was quietly submitted by the Muizzu administration and swiftly passed by the government-aligned majority in the People’s Majlis. The legislation effectively tightens government oversight over the media landscape, raising fears of an impending clampdown on press freedom.

The bill’s passage sparked widespread protests outside the parliament, with journalists and citizens vocally opposing the law from the start of the parliamentary sitting through its conclusion. In response, police employed disproportionate force to disperse demonstrators. Numerous journalists reported abuse, including being kneed in the head, having their arms twisted, clothing torn, and sustaining bleeding injuries.

Critics warn that the ratification of this law marks a significant regression for press freedom in the Maldives, rolling back years of progress. Opposition parties contend that the bill is a deliberate move by the president to consolidate authoritarian control. Legal experts have further underscored that the legislation imposes sweeping restrictions on the constitutional right to free expression, curtailing fundamental democratic freedoms for Maldivian citizens.

As the Maldives faces mounting domestic and international criticism, questions remain about the future of independent journalism and the broader health of democracy under the current administration.