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
June 11, 2025: Pakistan celebrated a narrow win over Bangladesh, but beneath the jubilation lies a deeper crisis—from sidelined veterans to a collapsing domestic structure—signaling an urgent need for cricket reform.
June 11, 2025: Journalists walked out of the post-budget press conference in Islamabad to protest the absence of a technical briefing and the government's dismissive behavior, calling it unacceptable and intolerable.
May 31, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz has issued a defamation notice to Shoaib Akhtar over derogatory remarks made during a recent broadcast, reigniting a longstanding media feud between the two prominent figures in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has demanded the full repeal of PECA, citing its vague language, coercive powers, and threats to free speech and digital rights in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has condemned the murder of journalist Syed Mohammed Shah in Jacobabad, calling for urgent justice and improved safety for media professionals in Sindh.
May 26, 2025: In Rawalpindi, police allegedly side with Jang Group to block 66 reinstated employees from resuming work despite court orders, drawing sharp criticism from unions and press freedom advocates.
May 25, 2025: PFUJ condemns the Jang Group's decision to dismiss over 80 employees in Rawalpindi, calling it an 'economic massacre.' The union warns of nationwide protests if workers are not reinstated.
May 25, 2025: Daily Jang Rawalpindi has terminated over 80 employees, including female staff, despite multiple court rulings in their favor—raising concerns over labor rights violations and misuse of authority in Pakistani media.
May 19, 2025 PJS reports 219 Palestinian journalists killed in Israeli attacks since October 7, with 30 women among the victims. Over 430 were injured and 685 family members were killed. Read more on the systematic targeting of media in Gaza.
May 15, 2025 Discover the legacy of Samiullah Khan, Pakistan’s legendary "Flying Horse," whose breathtaking speed and artistry redefined hockey. From Olympic glory to World Cup triumphs, his story is one of myth, movement, and magic.
May 04, 2025 Algerian authorities suspend Echorouk News TV for 10 days after it used a racist slur against African migrants. ANIRA demands an apology, calling it a violation of human dignity.
May 04, 2025 NCHR and MMfD launch a journalism fellowship to train reporters on digital rights & gender inclusion in Pakistan. Supported by UNESCO, this initiative aims to bridge the gender digital divide. Apply by May 15, 2025!
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.