Speaker of the Parliament Mohamed Nasheed has stated that he does not support banning Maldivian Democracy Network (MDN) and Jamiyyath Salaf, and that dissolving clubs and organizations is a dangerous act.
Nasheed was asked regarding dissolving MDN and Jamiyyath Salaf during the 'Ask Speaker' program organized by the parliament, where the public was granted the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the Speaker.
In his answer, Nasheed said he was not supportive of dissolving any clubs and organizations as no organization can do a wrong on its own, but that wrongs are committed by its members. Therefore, any consequence on the actions of an individual must apply to the member only and not the organization as a whole, said Nasheed.
"Banning clubs, associations and political parties is a deplorable and dangerous act. It should not be done," he said.
A contentious report published by MDN titled "Preliminary Assessment on Radicalization in the Maldives" disrespected Islam and slandered Prophet Mohamed (PBUH). Following its publication, several rallies and protests were held in islands across the nation calling to ban the association.
Youth Ministry, which regulates the activities of clubs and NGOs revoked the license issued to the association on November 5 after police investigation into the matter. However, it is still unclear whether the association has been banned.
Religious organization, Jamiyyath Salaf recently came under fire after a report on the murder of former Ungoofaaru MP and religious scholar Dr. Afrasheem Ali was publicized by the presidential commission investigating murders and enforced disappearances. While the parliament has approved to take action against Salaf, Nasheed has spoken against banning the organization.
Speaker Mohamed Nasheed answering questions at 'Ask Speaker' - Photo: Parliament
