Opposition MDP has revealed that Housing Ministry had failed to issue a response to the Party, for their request to hold their rally in Artificial Beach next Thursday.
Various media sources had reported that Housing Ministry had refused to authorize the request made by the Party for Artificial Beach. MDP had put in the request yesterday.
Speaking to Avas, MDP Secretary General Anas Abdul Sattar said that MDP had been trying for a year to obtain permission from Housing Ministry to hold a rally. However, he said the Party had been unsuccessful in obtaining the required authorization. He added that the Party had tried to hold Thursday night's rally in Dharubaaruge but had been informed at the last minute that the location was unavailable. Anas said they had requested for Artificial Beach following this.
"When we first requested for Dharubaaruge, they confirmed the location was available on June 2. When we went to submit application forms, they said Dharubaaruge was allotted for Government use that night. Then we requested for Artificial Beach," Anas said.
Anas said when rumors had surfaced over the availability of Artificial Beach, they had called numerous times to Housing Ministry to determine whether if the rumors were true.
"If only we get a reply from them we can make a decision. I believe that the delay is being caused as they have to discuss with Home Minister as well," Anas said.
In regard to the issue, Housing Minister Dr. Mohamed Muizz said that Housing Ministry had not and would never hinder any rallies to be held by MDP. However, he said the Ministry had clearly specified the areas in which rallies cannot be held and as such, Artificial Beach is under those areas. As such, he said the area cannot be released for a political rallies.
"We have published the procedures. The list had specified what can and cannot be carried out in which areas. So we cannot bend our rules and procedures for any party. The procedure clearly said areas like Artificial Beach, Rasfannu cannot be released for political activities. But if they want to carry out their rallies in other areas they can do so," Muizzu said.
