Public Service Media (PSM) has affirmed its commitment to impartiality and transparency in the upcoming "Male' Mayor 2024" debate by clarifying that it has not disclosed any debate questions to any candidate.
The clarification comes in the wake of social media speculation alleging that certain candidates were provided with debate questions prior to the scheduled debate. PSM addressed these claims, refuting any suggestion of impropriety and emphasising that no advance information on the debate questions has been provided to candidates.
Scheduled for January 6, 2024, the mayoral debate has garnered anticipation, with all candidates accepting the invitation to participate. In an effort to ensure fairness, PSM convened a meeting with the candidates on December 20, adhering to the established rules of the debate. The sequence in which candidates will present their views has been determined, but PSM has affirmed its commitment to keep the specific debate questions confidential at this time, as they have not been yet prepared.
The unprecedented number of five candidates vying for the mayoral position adds significance to this election. The contenders include Aishath Azima Shakoor from the People's National Congress (PNC), Adam Azim representing the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Saif Fathih of The Democrats, and two independent candidates, Hussain Waheed and Shuaib Ali.
The primary objective of the mayoral debate is to provide a platform for candidates to announce their perspectives, visions for the city, and proposed policies for the betterment of the community. PSM, in addition to hosting the debate, will extend on-air coverage to allow candidates to expound on their visions, thereby fostering a more informed electorate.
PSM assures its commitment in upholding the role as a public service broadcaster, committed to facilitating a fair and informative electoral discourse for the benefit of the citizens.