Employees of various government institutions in Gaaf Dhaal Fiyoaree were instructed not to attend the welcoming reception for former President Mohamed Nasheed, who visited the island today as part of his campaign for the Chairperson position of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
Nasheed arrived in Fiyoaree this afternoon and, during a speech on the island, expressed concern over the situation. Criticising President Mohamed Muizzu, Nasheed said that such intimidation and harassment are not new to the MDP.
"Instructions are coming from Male' telling the Council and the people of Fiyoaree that they must not come out to welcome us. Despite this, the people of Fiyoaree will still come out. When they do, government officials on the island are taking those gathered outside and forcing them back into their homes," Nasheed said.
Nasheed and his campaign team were scheduled to dock at the new harbor currently under development in Fiyoaree. Although work on the harbor had been stalled for many days, dredging operations suddenly resumed today. As a result, Nasheed’s vessel was forced to dock at the island’s old harbor instead.
"They should not attempt to challenge us through such unethical political tactics, nor will they succeed. They simply do not have that capability. We will prevail. The MDP cannot be erased from this country," Nasheed declared.
Employees at the Fiyoaree Council, the Health Center, RDC, and MTCC were intimidated with warnings that participating in political activities during official working hours is an offense that could lead to dismissal. Adhadhu has obtained screenshots of messages sent by senior officials of these institutions to their staff.
Fiyoaree is the home island of Minister Abdulla Muththalib, one of Muizzu’s closest cabinet members. The island council is controlled by the ruling party, and the Council President, Abdulla Mubah, is a Muththalib's relative.
