MJA criticises MDP for not allowing pluralism in the media

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has criticised the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) after opposition-leaning DhiTV cameras were not allowed to cover an MDP general meeting, reports Miadhu.

The MDP meeting was being held at Lale International School in Hulhumalé, where DhiTV journalists were forced to leave the meeting.

“It is worrying that ruling party members do not understand that pluralism is the essence of democracy,” said the MJA, adding that “such threats against the independence and diversity of the media only serve to blatantly expose the lack of democratic credentials in senior ruling party members.”

The MJA also expressed concern over the intimidation of private media by MDP senior officials.

The MJA condemed “all such acts by ruling party officials and members against democracy and press freedom in Maldives.”