The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has forbidden its employees from participating in the nightly youth protests demanding justice for Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, 21, who was found with critical injuries on the rooftop of a warehouse after an apparent fall from a building in Male'.
Some HRCM employees told Adhadhu that all employees have been told not to participate in the youth-led protests. The HRCM senior officials told the employees that they were not allowed to protest after receiving complaints from the police.
"Last week, we were ordered not to participate in any demonstration. Senior police officers gave the order to prevent HRCM employees from participating in the protests. The employees have not joined since then," an employee said.
Freedom of expression and assembly is a fundamental right under the Constitution. Some employees have shared their concerns with Adhadhu because the HRCM, which is tasked with defending that right, has banned its employees from protesting.
The commission has not yet responded to questions about why the employees were banned from participating in the protest.
Employees of various commissions, including the HRCM and employees of government companies and ministries are also participating in the protests demanding justice for Yumnu.
The police have faced immense criticism over their response following Yumnu's fall. There have been accusations of a cover-up because the case involves relatives of wealthy and politically influential figures.
Yumnu is currently receiving medical care in Malaysia. Her family has announced that her condition is improving gradually. Raudh Ahmed Zilal, 21, who was with her at the time of the incident, was arrested six days later after public outrage.
The protesters are calling for the arrest of others involved in the case and justice for Yumnu.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has formed a commission to inquire into the incident. But the protesters have rejected the commission.
