Former Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has criticized the current government, claiming that its actions suggest the return of the tradition of punishing those who criticize the government.
In a post on social media platform X, President Solih expressed concern over the police summoning the opposing Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s social media activist, Hussain 'Thuthu' Shafiu over a post made online.
In his post, the former president said such actions undermine the progress made in securing freedom of expression and democracy in the Maldives.
'Summoning individuals to the police over social media posts and sending warning letters to councils is a step back in democracy, and the work done by Maldivian citizens to ensure the right to expression,' he wrote.
MDP's Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has also voiced his concerns regarding Shafiu being summoned to the police.
'Summons like this would not discourage Maldivians, especially MDP members, from speaking up,' he said.
Responding to Fayyaz's criticism, Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihsan clarified the reasons behind Shafiu's police summon. The minister said Shafiu had used threatening language in his post, implying that he would physically harm an individual if the opportunity arose.
'While this is the case, it is the responsibility of the authorities to address such threats and clarify the details of this matter,' he wrote.
The minister went on to question if Fayyaz would let a threat against himself be labeled as freedom of expression and be dismissed.
'It is highly irresponsible to politicize every matter,' he added.
