The extension of the periods of remand in custody for President of Adhaalath Party (AP) Imran Abdulla and Chairperson of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Ali Waheed, who were arrested during the anti-government rally on Friday, have been appealed.
Criminal Court remanded Imran, Ali Waheed, and Deputy Leader of Jumhooree Party (JP) Ameen Ibrahim in custody for 15 days on Saturday, saying that their release could threaten social security.
Police said that Imran and Ali Waheed’s speeches at the rally encouraged protesters to engage in violence, which resulted in clashes and attacks on police officers.
Addressing protesters on Friday, Imran aimed heavy criticism at the government and claimed that President Yameen and Minister of Tourism Ahmed Adeeb were “the cruellest people in the country”.
He said that the opposition’s purpose was to find justice for the Maldivians who had shed blood for the sake of their country, and the protest would not end until this is achieved.
Similarly, Ameen urged people from other islands to join the people of Malé for Friday’s protest, which he called a ‘jihad’ to save future generations.