MDP Postpones November 17 Protest Citing Government Restrictions

The National Council of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has voted to postpone the mass rally originally planned for 17 November in Malé, citing government restrictions.

The proposal to delay the event was submitted by the organising committee and was approved unanimously by council members present. A new date for the rally has not yet been announced.

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MDP Deputy Chairperson, Ibrahim Waheed (Ibray), who chaired the council meeting, said the government had obstructed preparations by restricting available protest spaces, removing banners, and blocking pick-ups intended for logistical work. He added that further time was needed to prepare for the upcoming local council elections and to pursue legal and other action over what he described as theft and unlawful activities carried out by the government.

The postponement comes as the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) announced a rally planned for 14 November and began promoting the event. Government ministers, senior officials, and party leadership were seen participating in related promotional activities on Saturday.

The MDP had earlier stated that a demonstration would be held on 17 November if the government failed to respond to demands raised during the 3 October protest. The date also marks the second anniversary of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.

Following the announcement, some MDP members and activists criticised the council’s decision on social media, arguing that the party had never backed down historically.