MoosunBahaaru

Maldives police raid news outlet over report alleging an affair between President Mohamed Muizzu and a former aide aje.news/hyed4w

Freedom of expression is fully guaranteed under the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives. I believe that journalists in the country enjoy this freedom completely, and it should be protected and further strengthened. The Maldives should be among the nations that uphold a high standard of press freedom globally. However, this freedom must be exercised responsibly, as journalism plays a crucial role in combating injustice, unfairness, and corruption within society. Journalism is also a national value that deserves recognition and protection at the state level. But if press freedom is misused as a means to harm people’s reputation and dignity, or to engage in defamation and bullying outside the bounds of Islam and the Constitution, and is turned into a political tool, it can ultimately damage society. Ethical and professional journalism is a strong system that safeguards social stability and security, and it must be preserved accordingly. The government of President Mohamed Muizzu @MMuizzu places significant importance on press freedom. In particular, the President personally meets with journalists every week, answers their questions directly, and encourages ministers to do the same. Promoting transparency and providing information are also key priorities of the government. It is regrettable to note that, at present, some media outlets, television channels, and certain social media accounts are targeting President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, members of his family, as well as some ministers and their families, in ways that the country has not witnessed before. In my view, any citizen who values justice would not accept such practices. Criticism of issues is not a problem; however, personal attacks and defamation are unacceptable. Insulting reputations, slander, defamation, the use of abusive language, and the spread of false information are all actions prohibited in the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet. A person’s honor and dignity are among their greatest assets, representing their moral identity. Therefore, protecting one’s reputation is among the higher objectives of Islamic Sharia. Accordingly, freedom of expression guaranteed by the Constitution should be exercised within the limits of Islam and the law. At the same time, the professional efforts of responsible journalists should be recognized and appreciated, and media work based on constructive criticism and objective thinking should be encouraged, in a way that serves society and preserves the dignity of its people.