The Vice President expresses relief at the media's financial independence

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef remarked on the relief brought on by the benefits of the media's financial independence during an exclusive interview with PSM News commemorating World Press Freedom Day and PSM News' Seventh Anniversary.
 
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice President conveyed greetings on behalf of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and himself, commemorating World Press Freedom Day and the Seventh Anniversary of PSM News.
 
In his comments, the Vice President expressed the profound satisfaction felt on such occasions, both by himself and by journalists and society, knowing that an elected government remains committed to their wellbeing. He reiterated the Government's commitment to recognising and valuing the various contributions of journalists.
 
The Vice President acknowledged the challenges faced in the growth of journalists and media outlets. He highlighted President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's efforts to foster a closer relationship with the media during the interim process after winning the 2023 Presidential Elections. This marked the first time that the President of the Maldives strived to build a close rapport with the press. During their meetings, the President actively listened to journalists' concerns and initiated steps to address them.
 
During the event, the Vice President noted the President's pledge to tackle the issues faced by state-owned media and other media outlets due to a lack of funding. He recognised the need for initiatives supporting journalists and media and shared that the President had already taken steps to ensure that each media outlet would be provided with the necessary resources per the guidelines.
 
The Vice President remarked on the President's pioneering opportunity to support the media with a supermajority in Parliament, backed by the people's trust. Additionally, he noted that the President fulfilled his pledge by allocating land from Hulhumalé for media operations, ensuring suitable arrangements for their work.
 
In his remarks, the Vice President emphasised the journalists' responsibility to bridge the gap between the people and the government. He affirmed the Government's continued media-friendly stance, to foster positive change throughout the nation.