MDP takes to the streets, demands Pres. Muizzu step down

The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has taken to the streets to protest and seek justice on connection with Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed’s case.

During the spontaneous gathering organized by the main opposition party, participants called for justice for the 21-year-old woman and accused President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of corrupting the nation by consolidating power.

The protesters called for President Muizzu to resign immediately, stating that the country's affairs cannot be conducted as the president wishes and that the current administration has failed miserably.

While the protesters were raising their voices near the presidential residence Mulee’aage, officers were active in the region.

The series of protests carried out by the Maldivian Democratic Party in the capital Malé City since 7 March 2025, turned into protests that rattled the government. From that point disproportionate force was used through the police, including the use of pepper spray and brutal force observed during the opposition protests. After pausing the protests for the last ten days of Ramadan, MDP has once again kickstarted their protests.

MDP has taken to the streets to protest to raise their voices against the government's impoverishment of the people. People were expressing their discontent, saying they were being deprived of fundamental rights. In addition to this, members of the public working in several industries have been stating that corruption within the government is increasing and that citizens are being oppressed.

Discussions at these protests revolving around land issues, taxi drivers' concerns, and the struggles of business owners were laced with grief. The speeches from parliamentarians and former lawmakers echoed widespread disappointment with the government. MDP has vowed to continue holding “loud” protests across the Maldives, insisting that they will persist in their efforts.