President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday night warned that "no one has the right to obstruct the future" despite taking measures to hinder freedom of expression after promising to give rights to the "fullest extent."
In his tour of Haa Alif atoll, Muizzu has repeatedly spoken about his policy of ensuring rights and liberties. But the police removed anti-government banners in Dhidhdhoo and prevented protests on the island ahead of his visit.
Dhuvaafaru island councillor Mariyam Yashfa was earlier summoned to the police for performing the song "Thee Bahuloolekey (You are a liar)" attributed to Muizzu at an opposition rally.
The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) activist Hussain Shafiu (Thuhthu) was also summoned to the police in connection with a post on social media X.
Meanwhile, the mobile phones of several individuals were seized with court warrants to find out those who provided information to X account Hassan Kurusee which has blown the whistle on multiple corruption cases.
Despite all these cases of limiting freedom of expression, Muizzu has repeatedly claimed that people have the right to do whatever is not prohibited by law.
“I will guarantee this," Muizzu said.
But he warned that "no one has the right to try to destroy the stability of the country, hinder our development and hinder our future."
Muizzu did not say what he meant by hindering development and the future.
Being united in the development of the country is something every citizen should be proud of because they are Maldivian, he said, adding that “political differences or any other topic should come after that."
Muizzu's remarks come amid preparations by the MDP to stage a rally in Male' on Friday night as concerns grow over the government's failure to fulfill pledges while repeatedly contradicting its word.
