Opposition rallies for judicial integrity; “if judges don't get justice, no citizen will”

In a powerful show of rebellion, opposition figures in the Maldives have rallied behind the judiciary, warning that if judges are denied justice, no citizen can expect to receive it.

At 10:30am on Wednesday, members of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP and The Democrats attempted to gather near the People's Majlis building in defense of justice. However, the police cordoned off the entire area, preventing access to the parliament building.

Following this, protesters gathered near Majeediyya School, raising their voices in defiance. Restricted to the school’s gate, they called for permission to proceed toward the parliament building. While authorities allowed a limited advance, the protesters were ultimately blocked from even reaching the corner of the parliament premises.

Protesters declared that if justice is denied to judges, it will be out of reach for ordinary citizens as well, a reality they described as deeply alarming. They called for the full independence of the Supreme Court and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), urging the government to end its interference in the judiciary.

Protesters delivered strong criticism of the current administration, accusing it of seizing control of the People’s Majlis and actively undermining the constitutional rights of Maldivian citizens.

Alongside their demand for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s resignation, protesters also called for Attorney General Ahmed Usham to step down.