Events held in Kulhudhuffushi, Dhaandhoo calling for release of political detainees
Protests in Kulhudhuffushi and Dhaandhoo called for the release of six individuals detained during the October 3 MDP rally
As part of the protest held in Dhaandhoo calling to free political prisoners.
Special gatherings were held on Friday night in Kulhudhuffushi City in Haa Dhaal atoll and Dhaandhoo island of Gaaf Alif atoll, calling for the release of individuals arrested during the mass "Lootuvaifi" rally organized by the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in Malé City on October 3.
The events drew significant participation from local residents and senior MDP figures. In Kulhudhuffushi, particular attention was given to the case of Yasir Abdul Latheef, the former MP for North Kulhudhuffushi, with many voicing support for his release. Similarly, in Dhaandhoo, attendees called for the release of Yaugoob Abdulla, the former MP for the constituency. Both events centered on demands for the release of all those detained for exercising their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
Participants also used the gatherings to criticize what they described as repressive actions taken by the administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, claiming such measures undermine democratic principles and target political opposition.
These events followed a similar demonstration held in Malé City earlier in the week, where calls were made for the release of six individuals arrested during the October 3 rally. The campaign is being described as a coordinated effort to push for the release of detainees, not only in the capital but also in their home constituencies.
A prominent feature of the Dhaandhoo event was the display of a large poster bearing the images of the six individuals currently held in Dhoonidhoo Custodial. The Criminal Court has extended their detention by 15 days. The detainees include: Yaugoob Abdulla, Yasir Abdul Latheef, Maafushi Council President Hassan Solah, Ali Jumaan, Azeem Ali, and Hassan Shakir.
Reports indicate that detainee Solah sustained an injury to his finger while in custody. In addition to this, a video circulating on social media shows former MP Yasir being physically handled while handcuffed, further fueling public concern.
In the aftermath of the October 3 rally, there has been growing criticism that the Muizzu administration is using state institutions to initiate politically motivated investigations targeting senior MDP figures. The opposition party has alleged that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is being used to issue summons and apply pressure on political leaders in an attempt to obstruct MDP’s upcoming rally scheduled for November 17.
