The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is marching across Male' calling for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's resignation.
The rally began at 8:30 pm with hundreds of people expected to march across several major streets in the capital city.
"Step back without oppressing the people. The people of Maldives have had enough. President Muizzu please resign," MDP President Abdulla Shahid said as the rally began.
This is the first MDP march since Muizzu assumed office in November 2023. MDP said they are marching against constitutional amendments, withholding of freedom of expression, the government’s control of the parliament and other undemocratic measures.
The constitutional amendments were rushed through the parliament and approved in less than 24 hours. The new amendments ensure MPs would lose their seats if they are expelled from their political parties.
In his tour of Haa Alif atoll earlier this week, Muizzu repeatedly spoke 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.
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.
An investigation is also underway after Muizzu was photographed inside a shopping mall in Singapore.
