The Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and former President, Mohamed Nasheed, has said that the right to assembly is a constitutional guarantee for all citizens and must be facilitated.
In an interview with Sangu TV, Nasheed noted that while the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act contains provisions that he believes contradict the Constitution, the law itself does not permit a total ban on gatherings.
"There is an Assembly Act. In my view, it contains several elements that are fundamentally unconstitutional. However, even that law allows for gatherings. Assembly cannot be prohibited," Nasheed said.
Highlighting that MDP protests are peaceful, Nasheed stated that rather than viewing these demonstrations as attempts to incite unrest, the police should facilitate them and provide assistance with traffic diversions.
Furthermore, Nasheed urged protesters to refrain from using offensive language and to conduct and conclude the demonstrations as peacefully as possible.
"The government and others must recognize that our protests are peaceful. Therefore, I strongly urge the police not to view these as riotous assemblies," Nasheed said.
"What they should do for us is assist in organizing these marches properly. This includes diverting traffic and ensuring that others do not behave disrespectfully or in a manner that could incite violence against the protesters."
Nasheed added that while some people had previously expressed dissatisfaction with MDP protests, public sentiment has shifted, and citizens now welcome the party’s presence on the streets.
"I must note that in the past, when we protested or drove a pickup [with loudspeakers], we would sometimes see disgruntled individuals. It was evident from their expressions, and some would even hurl insults. We don't see that anymore. Now, when we take to the streets, the people are smiling," Nasheed said.
The MDP has scheduled nationwide protests tonight to oppose actions by President Mohamed Muizzu’s administration that the party claims disregard laws and regulations. The Male’ rally, titled "Job Thursday," is set to begin at 9:00 pm near the Rasfannu area.
