On World Press Freedom Day, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu began the press conference at 10:00 AM. The press conference, which lasted approximately 15 hours, ended at 1:00 AM the next day. He started the press conference by stating that he would answer any question the journalists wanted to ask, even if it continued until the next day. The President continuously answered journalists’ questions.
During this meeting, he highlighted the important role of journalism in society and emphasized the importance of spreading news truthfully, impartially, and without bias. The President gave short breaks for prayer times during the conference and also answered questions submitted by the general public through journalists. This press conference was held at a time when the Maldives’ ranking in this year’s World Press Freedom Index has improved. In the index released by Reporters Without Borders, an international organization working for press freedom, the Maldives ranks 104th this year. Last year, the Maldives was ranked 106th.
The government is carrying out important work aimed at ensuring media freedom, increasing access to information, and improving journalistic resources. One such effort is the project to develop a Media Village to assist the Maldivian media. An agreement has been signed with a developer to proceed with this project.
The government has allocated 27.98 million rufiyaa in this year’s budget to assist private media. Additionally, under the policy of increasing transparency of information, the government has so far held 141 press conferences and 1,071 media interviews. This includes the “Ahaa Forum,” which has further strengthened direct connections between citizens and government officials, including ministers and the President himself participating in meetings.
The President’s Office has also launched a podcast called “With the People.” In this podcast, President Muizzu speaks directly to the people and shares information about policies. So far, 4 episodes of the podcast have been released. Through the “People’s Voice” portal, citizens have submitted 1,043 complaints or suggestions to the President. Of these, the President has responded to 705. This work is part of the government’s extensive efforts to strengthen direct connections with the people.
The press conference made history and became a record-breaking meeting, as it was the longest press conference held by a country’s president. Until now, that record was held by Ukrainian President Volodym President Volodymyr Zelensky, who met with journalists for 14 hours.
