Furathama.com, a registered media website that faced government censorship along with other critical sites, has been unblocked following public backlash.
Initially, the government had blocked Kurusee.com and Dhiyavaru.com, both known for their criticism of the government. The subsequent blocking of Furathama.com amid the backlash for the initial blocking drew further criticism, leading to its eventual unblocking. Although the government did not officially acknowledge the censorship, the website was reportedly accessible again within 24 hours.
Presidential Chief Spokesperson Mohamed Shaheeb denied government action against any registered newspaper, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation before issuing statements. Shaheeb's comments were directed at the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA), which condemned the government's actions following the initial blocking.
"Not every website is a newspaper. It is regrettable that the MJA has not looked into the matter enough before issuing a statement," Shaheeb said
Furathama.com, registered to Ahmed Athif, Deputy Tourism Minister under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration since November 25, 2019, lists Sun Online's journalist Ahmed Aazif as its editor.
Websites are blocked by internet providers on the order of the Communications Authority of Maldives (CAM). Currently, CAM is operated under the Ministry of Cities, Local Government, and Public Work, under the ministership of Adam Shareef Umar.
