The protests held on Artificial Beach on Human Rights day supporting religious freedom in the country have been condemned, with the case being sent to The National Defence Committee, stating that this has caused a threat to national security.
In addition, it has been proposed that the National Defence Committee keep an eye on how investigation is carried out of the case which involves people who made statements which support murder on a website created to promote a mass protest on 23 December, 23december.com.
Ali Waheed, head of the National Defence Committee and MP for Thoddoo zone said today that both cases are scheduled to be discussed on Monday.
The two cases were submitted to the National Defence Committee by Moosa “Reeko” Manik, the acting Chairperson of MDP. He said that while the police have started investigation of the case where statements were made supporting murder, the case of the 30 people who called for religious freedom should also be checked.
According to Moosa, as a result of the country’s developments brought about by tourism, there are foreign organisations who are constantly keeping an eye on the changes taking place in the Maldives. These people are also collaborating with Maldivians who have started campaigns in the name of religion.
Predicting violence during the upcoming mass protest, he said “similar to violence existing in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Sudan”, the religious protests in Maldives could become a threat to the country’s National Defence. In addition, the fact that MDP will protest against the mass protest will make matters worse.
Head of the Committee Ali Waheed said that cases such as these provoke emotional responses and will be given priority.
Statements supporting murder on a website launched to promote a mass protest on 23 December to protect Islam in the country has made this a heated case. While the President’s office condemned these statements, the police has started an investigation and begun questioning the leaders driving the upcoming protest.
Adhalath Party has proposed that an investigation be carried out of the protests held by 30 people on Artificial Beach on Human Rights day, supporting religious freedom in the country.
The Constitution of Maldives states that the country’s religion is Islam and that laws of the country shall be based on Islam. It also states that being a Muslim is a prerequisite for being a Maldivian.