Government denies obstructing freedom of assembly

The government has denied allegations made by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail that it obstructed the party from securing a venue for its anniversary celebrations, which are expected to mark the return of former President Mohamed Nasheed and several members of The Democrats.

Fayyaz, chairperson of the country’s largest opposition party, claimed the government was deliberately preventing arrangements for the event and hindering The Democrats’ reintegration into the MDP.

In a post on X, he warned that if a venue was not granted by Monday, the welcoming ceremony would be held outside the president’s official residence, Mulee’aage, and called on MDP members to gather at the location at 9pm that night. In response, President’s Office spokesperson Heena Waleed outlined the locations where political rallies can be held without prior permission. Previously limited to the Carnival area, the Ministry of Homeland Security added three new designated sites on 2 May including the Rasfannu area, Industrial Village, and Usfasgandu.

Heena, said that the importance of conducting political activities responsibly and lawfully.

“Instead of misleading the public, it is vital to uphold the rule of law and maintain the democratic foundations of Maldives,” she said.

MDP anniversary falls on 26 June and is expected to be a significant occasion this year with the formal return of Nasheed and other members who had split to form The Democrats in 2023.