LONDON: The Commonwealth Journalists Association has urged the new authorities in the Maldives to respect the right of journalists in that country to go about their work without fear of intimidation and in a safe and respectful atmosphere.

“We expect nothing less from a Commonwealth member country that has undertaken to uphold Commonwealth values, especially as they relate to human rights and freedom of expression.”

The CJA president Rita Payne said: “While the Maldives is in turmoil, we note with grave concern a statement by the Maldives Journalists Association that members of the media are being threatened and harassed over their reporting of the current political crisis.” The association said that television stations were being penalised for airing opposition politicians’ comments.