Wednesday 18 Mar 2026
MDP protests at PSM reception following being denied a meeting with the Managing Director Ahmed Shakeeb, March 16, 2026. (X Photo/MDP Secretariat)
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) organized a protest at the Public Service Media (PSM) headquarters on March 16, 2026, citing grievances regarding the broadcaster's handling of the upcoming referendum. Demonstrators accused PSM of deliberately excluding opposition perspectives and demanded the resignation of Managing Director Ahmed Shakeeb. PSM officially denied these allegations, noting that coverage strictly adheres to established regulations regarding the inclusion of former Special Parliament members. Furthermore, the broadcaster clarified that Shakeeb was currently abroad for Umrah. Despite ongoing MDP attempts to secure court orders to suspend the referendum, the broadcaster remains steadfast in its mandate to provide neutral public information.
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) staged a protest at the Public Service Media (PSM) headquarters on Monday, accusing the state broadcaster of denying airtime to opposition voices regarding the upcoming referendum.
MDP members arrived at the PSM building around 13:00 seeking a meeting with Managing Director Ahmed Shakeeb. However, they were informed by the receptionist that Shakeeb was not in the country. The party then requested to meet another senior official, but that request was also denied.
In response, the MDP called for Shakeeb’s resignation and continued their protest in the reception area. The party stated on Monday evening that they had not yet been able to meet any PSM official and were still at the premises.
The protest lasted several hours, during which police attempted to disperse the crowd.
Fenna Nufenna vote aai gulhigen heyluntheri kuruvan kamahbune PSM in genesdhey programme thakuga hama hama furusathu nudheythee MDP in PSM ge MD aai bahdhalu kurumah mivaguthu PSM ga.. pic.twitter.com/iI4HQyu43n
— MDP Secretariat (@MDPSecretariat) March 16, 2026
PSM has denied the allegations, stating that its referendum program prioritizes former members of the Special Parliament and is not biased toward any political party. The company said it had informed the MDP in writing that Shakeeb was in Saudi Arabia for Umrah at the time of the meeting request.
PSM also expressed concern over the conduct of protestors, saying it caused fear among staff. The company reiterated its commitment to the Public Service Media Act and its mandate to provide unbiased, truthful information.
Meanwhile, the MDP has filed multiple cases at the Civil Court seeking an interim order to halt the referendum. All three attempts have been rejected.
