The police issued a warning tonight that legal action will be taken against those participating in the ongoing series of protests in Male' advocating for journalists' rights.
This move contradicts the pledges made by the current administration prior to assuming office.
In a statement released a short while ago, the police clarified that gatherings without authorization can only be held in locations specifically designated by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
"Gatherings held outside of designated areas that infringe upon the rights of the general public will not be permitted," the police stated.
The statement further warned that any gatherings held in violation of this directive would be dispersed, and legal action would be taken against those involved.
The police also appealed to the public to "exercise fundamental rights in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others."
Legislation prohibiting gatherings in any location other than those designated by the Home Ministry without prior permission was passed on August 17, 2016, during the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen. At that time, the Home Ministry designated the Carnival area in Male' as the only site where gatherings could be held without prior approval.
President Mohamed Muizzu’s manifesto included a commitment to expanding the right to peaceful assembly. Article 19.11 of the manifesto, published on the President’s Office website, states that assembly would be treated as a fundamental right and that freedom of assembly would be expanded in line with the standards of developed nations, provided it does not contradict Islamic principles. Furthermore, the repeal of the restrictive law was included in the current administration’s legislative agenda.
