Emergency motion claiming PSM modified Quran accepted

An emergency motion submitted to the Parliament on Thursday accusing state media, Public Service Media (PSM) of broadcasting Quran verses after modification has been accepted by the unanimous votes of lawmakers.

The emergency motion was submitted by MDP’s Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir. It was accepted the unanimous votes of 71 MPs in attendance.

The emergency motion underscored that PSM’s mandate includes working towards fostering a society that is equipped with information useful to the nation in various fields including religion, economy, society and politics. In this regard, it was stressed that PSM is responsible for informing the public on issues that will be of interest to Maldivian citizens such as national and international news and current affairs.

Contrary to its mandates, the emergency motion states PSM has been broadcasted Quran verses after modification – something which was claimed to have purposefully done with the intent of misleading the meaning of the verses.

The emergency motion, highlighting that the state media only provides opportunities to government officials, staff, and supporters, stated that the opposition should also receive equal opportunities.

Mauroof extended gratitude to all lawmakers for accepting his motion.

The emergency motion comes amid criticism from public against PSM, accusing the state media of omitting part of the recitation of the Holy Quran during a function held as part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent tour of Kaafu Atoll and Alifu Alifu Atoll.

PSM later deleted the said livestream.