MDP Relocates ‘Ran Reendhoo’ Event to Malé Following Denial of Permit in Hulhumalé

The main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has announced that its upcoming ‘Ran Reendhoo’ run and walk event will now be held in Malé after being denied permission to host the event in Hulhumalé by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC).

The decision was revealed during a press conference, where former MDP chairperson Hassan Latheef stated that the party had submitted a request to the HDC to hold the inaugural event in Hulhumalé on Friday. However, the request was rejected on the grounds that the event was political in nature.

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

The ‘Ran Reendhoo’ event, which features a symbolic torch run, was initially planned to begin in Hulhumalé and continue across all residential islands of the Maldives. According to Latheef, the torch will travel from the northernmost islands to the southernmost, concluding before April next year. The event is part of the party’s efforts to commemorate its 20th anniversary and to celebrate the return of former members to the party.

Latheef explained that the torch symbolises the MDP’s contributions to the country, including its work, services, and development initiatives over the years. As the torch is carried to each island, the party will deliver a letter of appreciation to residents, particularly MDP members and supporters.

Also speaking at the press conference, the party’s North Galolhu constituency president and former chairperson Mariya Ahmed Didi suggested that the government was attempting to obstruct the event due to concerns over the MDP’s popularity. She noted that the party has chosen to proceed with the event on Friday, 25 July, along Majeedhee Magu in Malé, one day ahead of Independence Day celebrations, to highlight the current state of freedom of assembly.

The ‘Ran Reendhoo’ event is one of several activities planned by the MDP to mark its 20th anniversary under the theme ‘Ekugai Gadhakoh’, meaning “Strong Together.” Celebrations held so far include a flag hoisting ceremony, a cake-cutting event, and a futsal tournament.