JournalismPakistan.com | Published February 05, 2018
Join our WhatsApp channel
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) condemns the statement by a senior political leader calling for the shutdown of a television station amid the unfolding political crisis in the Maldives on February 4. The IFJ has demanded respect for press freedom in the Maldives.
Abdul Raheem Abdullah, the deputy leader of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and a parliamentarian, called on the security forces to immediately shut down opposition-aligned Raajje TV at a press conference on February 4. The politician made the call after accusing Raajje TV of giving airtime to the former President Mohamed Nasheed and other opposition leaders.
Raajje TV condemned the statement saying that it always adhered to the laws of the country. It said: “This was a warning to RaajjeTV, and all journalists’ right to freedom of speech is guaranteed under the Constitution of the Maldives, laws and international treaties to which the Maldives is party. However, the call to shut down RaajjeTV is regressive, and alien to democracy and democratic values.”
Raajje TV added: “A free and independent media is a key aspect of holding the government accountable. Raajje TV views the call by the ruling party to shut down our station as an attempt to clear obstacles for them to conduct their unlawful affairs, as they please. Raajje TV calls on the ruling party to cease their actions in hampering free media, right to information and freedom of expression.”
Earlier on February 2, the Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC) warned that any media station that impacts national security will face closure, without any warning. Ismail Safwan, MBC member, said that any and all television stations that broadcast content that impacts national security would face closure.
The IFJ said: “The IFJ condemns the statement made by Abdul Raheem Abdullah calling security forces to shut down Raajje TV for broadcasting opposition voices. It’s a statement against the rule of law and press freedom, and an attempt to silence critical voice important in the time of political crisis that the Maldives is currently going through. The IFJ calls on the government and all parties to respect the rule of law and press freedom in the Maldives.” – IFJ media release
April 30, 2025: Freedom of expression in Pakistan is under threat, as the 2025 Freedom Network report reveals increased arrests, censorship, and legal restrictions following amendments to PECA, posing serious risks to journalists and democratic values.
April 30, 2025: Dawn has criticized the Indian media's calls for war and condemned the banning of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, urging a rational response after the Pahalgam attack that left 26 dead.
April 28, 2025: India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major news outlets and individual journalists, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. Tensions escalate as Islamabad demands a neutral probe.
April 23, 2025: Pakistani journalists respond in unison to a post hinting at a possible Indian military strike. Citing the 2019 ‘Swift Retort,’ they warn of a stronger response if provoked again.
April 21, 2025: After being expelled from PTI, MNA Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists and Aleema Khan, sparking outrage on social media over his offensive remarks.
April 21, 2025: Journalist Sanaullah Khan reveals that the FIA has launched a financial crackdown on YouTubers by freezing the bank accounts of journalists and their family members—raising serious concerns over freedom of expression and legal process.
April 20, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz launched his fifteenth book, In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple and Triple Centuries 1876–2025, at an elegant Islamabad event, reflecting on cricket’s rarest feats and his journey as a scholar of the game.
April 11, 2025: Sindhi journalist AD Shar was brutally murdered in Khairpur, Sindh. His body was found dumped on Handiyari Link Road. PFUJ has declared a three-day mourning period and demanded justice.
April 23, 2025 Discover Dr. Nauman Niaz’s In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple & Triple Centuries 1876–2025, a profound exploration of cricket's most monumental innings, blending historical analysis with poetic narrative.
April 22, 2025 Once a beacon of hope for Pakistan's cricket revival, the Pakistan Super League now grapples with stagnation and moral compromises. Can this cultural symbol reclaim its lost soul?
April 21, 2025 An Italian newspaper, Il Foglio, successfully published a month-long AI-written insert and praised its irony and analytical abilities, while affirming that AI will complement—not replace—quality journalism.
April 03, 2025 The International Press Institute (IPI) and International Media Support (IMS) invite nominations for the 2025 World Press Freedom Hero and Free Media Pioneer Awards. Recognizing courageous journalists and innovative media, the awards will be presented at IPI’s 75th-anniversary World Congress in Vienna. Submit your nominations by April 30, 2025.
April 01, 2025 Photojournalist Suresh Rajak was burned alive while covering a violent protest in Kathmandu. The IFJ and its affiliates condemn the attack and call for an urgent investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable.