Is TV and Radio in the Maldives Free and Fun for all?!?

What do you think about TV and radio in the Maldives? In particular, what are your views about state-run stations Voice of Maldives and TVM?

Some might claim that there has been genuine reform in the state media recently. This week a group of 7 NGOs launched a series of radio programmes called ‘Voice of Society’ on the state radio station ‘Voice of Maldives’. This is a real breakthrough for getting the voice of civil society heard with shows which will cover a range of subjects such as human rights, the role of civil society and promoting democracy. The first show was on Monday and shows will continue for the next year, aired at 8:45pm every Monday and repeated at 1:30am every Wednesday.

On the other hand, some claim access to state media and therefore access to inform a large proportion of the Maldivian population is still restricted. Especially in the context of the elections many believe NGOs, opposition political parties and outspoken individuals are not given sufficient air time in news and programmes.

What is your view? Do you think there are genuine changes in the state media?

Do you think coverage of issues related to the elections is open to all?

And what about the new radio stations, such as Dhi Fm, Faraway, Hfm and Capital? Do you enjoy their shows and do you think they are providing a fairer picture of Maldivian society?

Police in the Maldives – what’s your view?

What do you think about the police force in the Maldives? There are currently around 4000 officers to police a population of 300,000 people. Is this enough? Too many?

Lack of training for officers to carry out their job professionally and efficiently is highlighted as a key area; currently police officers receive only 4 months of training before starting work. Is this sufficient to foster a reliable and supportive service to the community?

The police themselves admit there is a need for more emphasis on community policing and engagement with citizens. This will foster a police force that can ensure a secure and peaceful place to live for all Maldivians. The police pinpoint that lack of training and understanding in this area is the barrier. Do you think this is a valid justification or is there a lack of will or motivation for police officers to approach the community in a positive and caring way?

Perhaps a greater issue is that the promised reforms to the system are still incomplete? The Police Bill has still not been passed in Parliament and the current Penal Code is very difficult for the police to maintain integrity in carrying out their work. What can the police do to highlight the delays as hindering their work and can the public take a role in raising awareness?

Above all appears to be a need for greater transparency throughout the police service. What information would you like to police to give out to the public? And how do you think the police should be more transparent at every level, from Commissioner down to Officer?

So, what is your view? Please post your comments and let us know what you think about the police service in the Maldives today...

Rock Concert!!!

Zero Degree Atoll, Traphic Jam, Unborn and Trio are set to play at a concert called ‘Resurrection’ on this Thursday night (1st May) at 8pm at Carnival Stage.

The theme of the concert is:

‘Young people care about the community:
we say no to gang fights,
we say no to drugs,
and just want to have fun!’

A group of active young people have organised the event and they have decided to hold a one minute silence during the show to pay respect to the two young boys who died in the recent gang fights.

The concert will give young people an opportunity to enjoy themselves at an evening focussed on great musical entertainment!

Tickets are Mrf 35 and available from Barcode, Time Zone, Dolphin, Baywatch and Dupicate. Or you can just turn up and pay when you get there!

Please come along and join the fun!