Maldives Parliament on Tuesday passed the controversial Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill with several government-proposed amendments, during an extraordinary sitting held while the chamber was in recess.

The new law mandates the formation of a Media and Broadcasting Commission, comprising seven members. Four members will be selected from the media sector, while three will represent the general public. The three public members will be appointed by Parliament following a public announcement and selection process.

The bill has drawn sharp divisions both inside and outside the legislature. Opposition politicians and journalists staged protests in Malé, claiming the legislation undermines press freedom and freedom of expression, and called for it to be rejected. Meanwhile, government supporters held demonstrations in support of the bill, arguing that media regulation is necessary.

Parliament leaders have maintained that the amendments address concerns raised by journalists and that the bill upholds a self-regulatory framework rather than imposing restrictions.