Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has issued a fresh appeal to foreign nations to exert additional pressure over the Government’s alleged actions to ban political rallies and activities.
A statement released regarding the planned rally to mark the 11th anniversary of the Party, MDP said the Police actions last night were illegal.
“Opposition rallies and meetings have been met with police pepper-spray and arrests numerous times and last night’s events are only the latest example,” the statement said.
MDP statement added that “all attempts at conducting peaceful political activity by the opposition have been systematically impeded by the Government”, in spite of the rights for free speech and free assembly granted in the Constitution.
The statement concluded by stating that the Party “appeal(s) to the international community to impress upon the Yameen regime that stifling of the people’s wills and voices would lead to an unsustainable and uncontrollable situation”.
Police said the rallies cannot be allowed on the streets, citing public safety and security.
