Party dissolved without due process, violating constitutional rights: MTD
MTD party claims its dissolution by EC was unconstitutional and made without due process
MTD's inaugural gathering (file photo).
The Maldives Third-way Democrats (MTD) has stated that the decision to dissolve the party was made without due process and in violation of constitutional rights.
In a statement condemning the political pressures faced by MTD, the party strongly criticized the Elections Commission's decision to dissolve the Maldives Third-way Democrats (MTD), which they claim is illegal. The party stated that this decision was made without the consent of its members and without providing due process, violating the constitutional rights granted to the party by the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives.
MTD also stated that the action is aimed at destroying the democratic system of the Maldives, suppressing political activities, and endangering the fundamental right to freely engage and participate in political affairs. The party said it will pursue all available legal avenues through the courts to seek justice against the unjust decision made by the Elections Commission in violation of the law. They also called on democratic institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners to stand with the party and its members in the matter.
The party stated that attempts to politically suppress them will not succeed and emphasized that the principles of justice and democracy must be promoted freely.
MTD, the party of former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb, was dissolved within 48 hours of criticizing the government.
In an announcement dated 26 August 2025, the Elections Commission stated that it had decided to dissolve the Maldives Third-way Democrats (MTD) in accordance with Article 30(a)(1) of Law No. 4/2013 (Political Parties Act).
The announcement did not specify the reason for dissolving MTD.
"Therefore, if Maldives Third-way Democrats has any outstanding debts, we request that they be submitted and settled by 31 August 2025," the Elections Commission's announcement read.
The decision to dissolve Adeeb's party was made at a time Adeeb had indirectly criticized the government in a post made on social media platform ‘X’, on National Day.
Adeeb stated that the most important national duty is to ensure that Maldivians are free from hunger and debt, have access to housing, live in a stable environment, and that every citizen has their own e-wallet and receives a share of the country's economy, becoming prosperous Maldivian citizens.
In his post, Adeeb mentioned that our ancestors acted through deeds, saying, "Not through reform work, flattery on podiums, reciting poems, giving awards and holding ceremonies." He added that Bodu Thakurufaanu saved this country through actions, with foreign aid and the love of Maldivian citizens.
"This is our country too, let me remind you of that," Adeeb said.
