Former President Mohamed Nasheed has declared that he will continue to participate in public protests, even if authorities follow through on a decision to withdraw his security detail during such events.
Speaking at a press conference today, Nasheed said that while he would take personal precautions for his safety, the removal of state protection would not deter him from joining demonstrations.
"I do not believe anyone in the Maldives thinks they can intimidate me into staying off the streets. God willing, that will not happen. I will go out," Nasheed said.
"We will take whatever precautions we can. We will seek to ensure our own safety to the best of our ability."
Nasheed noted that political leaders are most frequently targeted during political gatherings, citing numerous local examples. He argued that withdrawing security for former presidents during such assemblies poses a major threat to national security.
"I will join protests even if security is cut off. No one should view these two things as being linked. My concern is not just for my own life; many others could be harmed. This is not a matter to be taken lightly or used for political maneuvering," Nasheed added.
Security for former presidents is provided by the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) under established regulations. The decision to suspend security for former heads of state while they attend protests was made by the Parliament's Committee on National Security Services (241 Committee).
