Presidential Spokesperson Miuwan Mohamed has said that the current government will ensure freedom of assembly in the capital city.
An amendment to the Freedom of Assembly Act, which placed restrictions on gatherings in the capital city, was ratified during former President Abdulla Yameen's tenure in 2016. The law was amended to prohibit demonstrations and rallies anywhere in Male' except in the Carnival Area. Repealing that provision of the law is a presidential pledge of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. However, this government still needs to fulfill that pledge.
Speaking at a press conference at the President's Office Wednesday, Miuwan said the previous administration brought amendments to the Assembly Act to restrict freedom of assembly in the Greater Male' Region. However, the current administration would amend the law once again to ensure the right to freedom of assembly, he said.
"The freedom of expression and freedom of assembly are supported by the government," he said.
The spokesperson added that the government of former President Abdulla Yameen imprisoned journalists and politicians by depriving them of their right to freedom of expression. He assured that the current government would not do such a thing.
