The government has urged the opposition to respect the established rules and regulations even when exercising the right to peaceful protest and assembly, describing it as essential to maintaining the norms and principles of democracy in society.
Chief Spokesperson of the President’s Office, Heena Waleed was responding to accusations by the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) that the government had impeded its request to hold a political rally in the capital Male’.
Heena, in a post on social media, acknowledged that responsible political engagements and advocating for matters of national interest are essential to establish the foundations of a full-fledged democracy in the Maldives.
She pointed out that previously, peaceful assembly was only permitted in the Carnival area in the east of Male’ without prior permission.
However, this administration had designated three additional areas to facilitate peaceful gatherings including the Rasfannu Area, Male’ South-West reclaimed area, and the Usfasgandu area, she said.
However, gatherings in other areas will require a written approval from the Maldives Police Service.
Heena urged opposition leaders to stop misleading the public, insisting that respecting the rules and regulations even when exercising the freedom of expression and assembly were crucial to maintaining rule of law and the prevalence of democracy.