Former President and current President of Maldivian Democratic Party Mohamed Nasheed’s Office has condemned the Government’s decision not to offer security for Nasheed’s wife and former First Lady, Laila Ali in the anti- Government rally held last Friday night.
A statement released by the Office yesterday stated that Government had revoked the security given to Laila following decision to take part in the rally. Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), who is in charge of providing security for former Presidents and their families, had not informed Laila of their decision to revoke security.
Nasheed’s Office noted that other former President and their spouses receive full security in several political activities.
“We note that Laila Ali had received full security in other peaceful political events. Therefore, revoking security for her, following her decision to join the rally on Friday night, was unconstitutional and we condemn MNDF decision,” the statement said.
The statement also noted that clause five of act on remuneration for former Presidents and their spouse’s states that adequate security has to be given for former Presidents and their spouses.
The statement said that the biggest responsibility of the nation’s armed forces was to ensure that their service was given to the public within the Constitutional means and to secure the rule of law. Therefore, the Office stated that it was paramount that the armed forces remained free from political influence.
The statement concluded by issuing an appeal to the armed forces not to act in a manner that would create a negative public perception.