Police have intervened to stop a protest march by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) from proceeding along Majeedhee Magu in Male'.
The protest, titled "Dhathivejje", was organized to voice concerns over the uncontrolled rise in the cost of living. Police halted the demonstrators near the Social Center on Majeedhee Magu.
The protest saw the participation of MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed, MDP President Abdulla Shahid, other senior party leadership, and general members.
Home Minister Ali Ihusaan had previously warned that the protest would not be permitted on Majeedhee Magu during the requested time, citing concerns over heavy traffic congestion during peak hours.
However, the MDP maintained that the police had earlier provided assurances that the protest could proceed on Majeedhee Magu. The party insisted that the demonstration would not be moved to any other location.
The MDP explained that they chose Majeedhee Magu because it is a densely populated residential area, allowing their message to reach a larger number of citizens.
The "Dhathivejje" protest was organized in response to the skyrocketing prices of goods. According to government statistics, the price of essential food items has risen by eight percent within the past year.
