MDP condemns the removal and covering of campaign banners, posters and other campaign materials of our candidate contesting in Gaaf Alif Kolamaafushi Constituency for a campaign visit of the pro-government PPM-PNC Candidate, at Gaaf Alif Maamendhoo on 23rd March 2024.

MDP also condemns the uncivilized and undemocratic actions of the ruling party coalition who prevented the supporters of MDP from expressing their views.

Deputy Mayor of Male’ City, Ahmed Nareesh, who is accompanying the PNC candidate to Maamendhoo, attacked a youth who was condemning the PNC’s prevention of political activism and campaigning in the island. Such degrading behavior by the Deputy Mayor, who is in an elected position in the state and a prominent figure of the party representing the government, is unacceptable to Maldivian populace. The actions of Male’ City Deputy Mayor has been reported to the Maldivian Police Service with details of the eyewitnesses.

MDP calls on the Maldivian Police Service to investigate and act on any wrongdoings and obstruction of any electoral rights of the candidate, as well as any act contrary to the code of conduct for election campaign activities.

We call on the President and the Government of Maldives to take all necessary measures to facilitate a peaceful campaign without infringing on the electoral rights of opposition candidates in accordance with laws, regulations, and democratic principles.