ECM Urges MDP, PNF to Hold Protests in Accordance with Law

The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has urged the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the People’s National Front (PNF) to conduct ongoing protests in Malé in line with the law, citing concerns over rhetoric and conduct at recent political activities.

The Commission said that, in letters sent yesterday, they had informed the parties that a series of activities held by the two parties had involved speech that violates general social standards and may incite hatred and unrest among the public. It instructed both parties to ensure their protests and gatherings comply with the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act and other applicable regulations.

The EC further advised the parties to refrain from breaching codes of conduct, including engaging in personal attacks against political figures, spreading unsubstantiated claims that could foster animosity, and holding gatherings in public spaces outside legally permitted limits.

Both MDP and PNF have been staging protests in Malé in recent weeks, with PNF demonstrations calling for the removal of President Mohamed Muizzu. Protesters affiliated with PNF have also carried a sofa as a symbolic reference to allegations made in a documentary released last month by Adhadhu News. Police had previously seized one such sofa during a protest, though demonstrators have continued to bring similar props to subsequent gatherings.

The Commission said it welcomes political activity but stressed that such actions must be carried out within the legal framework.