Farushath resigns as Media Commission chief over ‘unresolvable challenges’

Mohamed Farushath resigned from his position as head of the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) on Wednesday, citing “unresolvable challenges” in treating media outlets fairly and equally.

In his resignation letter addressed to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Faruhath said he had decided to step down due to persistent obstacles that prevented the commission from functioning effectively and carrying out its responsibilities impartially towards all media outlets.

Farushath expressed hope that, as the Maldives continues its democratic transition, the media sector would develop into an academically and financially independent industry capable of fulfilling its responsibility to safeguard public rights. He concluded his letter by extending his best wishes to the media industry and the commission.

Farushath was appointed to the post in late October last year. Following his resignation, the remaining members of the commission are:

• Zamath Ahmed Waheed – Vice President
• Safa Shafeeq
• Aminath Sarahath Izzath
• Hussain Thageef Ihusan
• Simaha Naseem
• Abdul Azeez Ibrahim

MMBC was established by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu following the ratification of a government-backed media bill, which was protested by many journalists over provisions they believe grant the government excessive control over the media.