MDP Condemns Denial of Legal Counsel and Continued Detention of Peaceful Protesters

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) strongly condemns the continued detention of six individuals arrested during the peaceful protest on 3rd October. At the remand hearing, the Criminal Court extended their detention by an additional 15 days, and have now been transferred to Dhoonidhoo Custodial Jail.

We are deeply concerned that the detainees were not given the opportunity to consult with a lawyer prior to the remand hearing – a clear violation of their constitutional right to legal counsel. Denying access to lawyers undermines due process and further erodes confidence in the fairness of the judicial system.

We further note with grave concern that government-aligned sources are spreading misinformation about those arrested, falsely claiming that they have criminal backgrounds. This is completely untrue and appears to be an attempt to justify the unlawful arrests and discredit peaceful demonstrators.

Among those detained are:

• 1) Yaugoob Abdulla – Former MP for Dhaandhoo Constituency, an auditor by profession, Chair of the MDP Sub-Committee for the 2026 Local Council Elections, and an active member of the MDP.

• 2) Yasir Abdul Latheef – President of MDP Kulhudhuffushi City, former MP for Kulhudhuffushi North Constituency

• 3) Hassan Solah – President of Maafushi Council, elected in 2021, known for his leadership and significant contributions to Maafushi’s development as one of the country’s leading guesthouse islands.

• 4) Azeem Ali – Certified Dive Master, currently working at a dive center in Baa Kendhoo.

• 5) Ali Juman – Holds a degree in Business Management from BCAS Campus, Sri Lanka. Former Senior Administrative Assistant at the President’s Office (2019–2023), currently employed as a Graphic Designer at Ocean Library.

• 6) Hussain Shakir – Salesperson at a local convenience store.

Detainees released:

• 1) Hassan Zareer - Councillor for Hithadhoo Rasgedhara constituency

• 2) Mohamed Khalaf Ibrahim

These arrests, coupled with the excessive use of force and disregard for constitutional rights, reflect the rapid decline of democracy in the Maldives. The MDP calls for the immediate release of all those detained and urges the authorities to uphold the Constitution, protect the rights of all citizens, and respect the freedom of peaceful assembly and expression