Nasheed Warns of Terrorist Attack Risks if MNDF Protection Removed from Former Presidents at Gatherings  

MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed has warned that revoking security protection for former presidents at public gatherings could increase the risk of a terrorist attack, arguing that such events are often targeted globally.

Speaking at a press conference today, Nasheed said most terrorist attacks on political figures occur during public gatherings, particularly in regions such as Asia and Africa. He said bystanders often become victims in such incidents, with casualties in some cases reaching between 30 and 80 people. He stressed that security services must maintain strong protection at public events due to the persistent threat of attacks.

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His remarks come as Parliament’s Committee on National Security Services (241 Committee) decided last week Monday to amend regulations governing MNDF protection for former presidents, including provisions that would suspend security arrangements while former heads of state attend protests.

According to a source familiar with the meeting, the decision was taken during a closed-door session reviewing existing policies on MNDF protection for former presidents. Full details of the proposed amendments have not been disclosed.

If implemented, the changes would require MNDF personnel to withdraw security coverage for the duration of any protest or public demonstration attended by former presidents.

The committee has not yet announced when the amendments would take effect or whether further parliamentary approval is required.

The proposal follows a rare joint appearance in May by former presidents Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Abdulla Yameen and Mohamed Nasheed, who jointly raised concerns over press freedom and called for the release of two journalists detained in connection with a documentary involving allegations against President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The journalists have since been released.

In their joint statement, the former presidents also warned of declining democratic standards and increased pressure on media freedom.