The trial of eight individuals involved in a protest held by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in Male' on the night of October 3, 2025, has been scheduled to begin this Wednesday.
The defendants, charged with intentionally obstructing law enforcement officers, include Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, Hulhumale' North Councilor Fathimath Zahiyya, Abdulsalam, Mohamed Hamaid Abdul Ghanee, Ali Nawfal, Aishath Najudha Ali, Ali Muavvaz, and Hussain Rasheed.
The Criminal Court is set to commence the hearing at 10:00 am on Wednesday. Court summons are currently being served to the individuals involved in the case.
The MDP protest began at the Artificial Beach; however, as participants attempted to march down Majeedhee Magu, police intervened and obstructed the demonstration using force and specialized equipment.
During the crackdown, police dispersed the crowd using pepper spray and a high-intensity acoustic device, which has been criticized as an unauthorized use of sound as a weapon.
Eight people were arrested during the protest, six of whom were remanded in custody for 15 days.
