Maldives Head of State conducts unprecedented 15-hour media briefing
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Here's a lowdown on the record-breaking 14-hour press conference by President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives, a stunning spectacle that kept journalists on their toes through the night!
On a Saturday morning, at the stroke of 10:00 am (0500 GMT), President Muizzu commenced this marathon session, unbroken by sleep for an astounding 14 hours and 54 minutes[1][2][3], with a few breaks for prayers. This epic venture surpassed the earlier record of 14 hours held by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, established in 2019[1][2][3]. Quite the catch, wasn't it?
Why, you ask? Well, the Maldivian leader aimed to underscore the importance of a free press, synced flawlessly with World Press Freedom Day, celebrated on that very Saturday[1]. Demonstrating the indispensable role of media in society, Muizzu underscored the significance of factual, impartial, and balanced reporting[1].
Eager question-askers, both journalists and the public, weren't left hanging, as Muizzu tackled a diverse range of queriesard throughout the session[1]. Question-meisters remained on-site for around two dozen, and were rewarded with a range of culinary delights[1].
Curious about Muizzu's backstory? Hailing from the Indian Ocean archipelago, he ascended to power in 2023, leading a nation that skyrocketed two places to the 104th spot, out of 180 countries, on the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF)[1].
Fancy some trivia? Muizzu's predecessor made headlines globally in 2009 by holding the first-ever underwater cabinet meeting, a bold move to emphasize the impending threat of rising sea levels that could submerge the low-lying Maldives[1]. For the record, former president Mohamed Nasheed and his ministers plunged into the Indian Ocean, fully clad in scuba gear, for a nationally televised meeting[1].
So there you have it – a whirlwind tour of President Muizzu's record-setting press conference in the Maldives! Remember, this island nation stands on the frontline of the battle against global warming, striving to preserve its 1,192 tiny coral islands scattered across the equator[1].
In contrast to President Muizzu's record-breaking press conference in the Maldives, a recent political event in Ukraine garnered attention when President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation for 14 hours, surpassing his own previous record set in 2019. Meanwhile, in a separate development, the Indian government and media have been actively engaged in discussions regarding press freedom and the role of media in society, aligning with general news interests both domestically and internationally.
