Politically driven lawsuit is a cowardly act aimed at silencing MDP: Pres. Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said that filing several different charges that are politically driven are a cowardly act aimed at silencing the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

Taking to social media platform ‘X’, Former President Solih said that this is not new to MDP and that such actions will not make MDP retreat even a little. He said this in reference to the lawsuit filed against MDP, its Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, and MDP activist Mariyam “Mandhy” Zubair at the Civil Court and Family Court.

He also said that MDP always stands united and resilient, and that the work MDP does for the rights of the people will continue.

The lawsuit against MDP, its Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, and MDP activist Mariyam “Mandhy” Zubair was filed by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's spouse, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed. She filed the lawsuit through Rehendhi Chambers.

According to a press release issued by the law firm, during a series of protests held by the MDP in the capital Malé City in March, MDP activist Mariyam Zubair made statements about President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's son, Umair Mohamed Muizzu, which have created a situation endangering Umair's life, and causing significant damage to his education and future.

The statement also mentions that cases have been filed on behalf of Umair's mother, First Lady Sajidha. A case has been filed at the Civil Court against MDP Chairperson Fayyaz, MDP activist Mandhy and the MDP for violating the right to protection of name and reputation guaranteed by the Constitution.

In addition to this, a case has been filed in the Family Court for violating the dignity and protection guaranteed to children by the Child Rights Protection Act and the International Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The statement says that these cases have been filed to ensure that the right to dignity and protection guaranteed to children by the Constitution and laws cannot be violated, even in the context of political opposition and competition, and to protect children's education, future, and self from harassment, bullying, and exposure to danger.

The statement also mentions that First Lady Sajidha believes it is essential to ensure protection for her children in her capacity as a mother, who are currently in that position, and for other children who may be in those positions in the future.

MDP has received the lawsuit documents linked to the case.