HRCM reminds protestors to ensure rights of others

Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) has issued a statement on Friday, reminding protestors to ensure the rights of others while exercising their right to assembly.

The statement said while freedom of assembly is a right protected by the constitution, it should be exercised without infringing on the rights of others, and that respecting the rights of all is important for the community's peace.

The commission urged the public to arrange the rallies in a manner that does not disturb commuters, pedestrians, residents and businesses in the area.

"Furthermore, as this is the GCE O'Level examination period, the commission urges the public to conduct such gatherings within the framework of freedom of expression without making noise in the streets. The commission also calls [on protestors] to proceed with demonstrations without violating the general community standards," the statement said.

HRCM has also called on Maldives Police Service to comply with the law and regulations in dispersing protests, reminding officers to follow procedures and promote peace in doing so.

On Thursday night, police used force and pepper spray to disperse the peaceful, youth-led protests outside Henveiru Police Station on Majeedhee Magu. The nightly protests demand justice for Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, a 21 year old found fallen onto the roof of a warehouse on April 18, and an end to nepotism and impunity for the elite.

Two lead protestors were arrested, and were remanded for three days.

Since then, the government declared additional areas which protestors could gather without prior approval from the government. Although it was previously only the carnival area, the new regulation allows protests at the Rasfannu area, industrial zone area and Usfasgandu area.

Police warned that protests outside of these spaces without prior approval would be mets with dispersement.