The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has decided to protest against the referendum to merge the parliamentary and presidential elections and the "authoritarian regime" of President Mohamed Muizzu.

The protest was announced at a press conference today (February 24). Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir said the protest will be held on March 21 and called on supporters and the public to participate in the demonstration.

The MDP also decided to conduct a series of activities against the referendum vote. A committee has been appointed to carry out the activities.

Additionally, the MDP is preparing to go to the High Court to quash the law allowing the referendum and cancel the presidential decree announcing the referendum.

“First of all, we have noticed that the presidential decree announcing the referendum is not in line with the law allowing the referendum and the changes brought to the constitution," Mauroof said.