MDP members being summoned to police on political orders: Mauroof

The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has accused the authorities of politically motivated actions, alleging that police summons issued to its members are being driven by orders from political leaders rather than genuine investigative needs.

MDP’s Legal Director Ahmed Mauroof, stated that the pattern of police activity in recent weeks clearly shows political interference. His remarks come after prominent MDP activist Najudha Ali was summoned to the police on Thursday in relation to the protest held on October 3.

According to Mauroof, the timing and focus of these summons suggest that the objective is to intimidate party members and suppress participation in the MDP’s upcoming rally scheduled for November 17. He noted that police actions appear aimed particularly at young activists who play leading roles in organizing and mobilizing demonstrations.

MDP contends that the so-called investigations have little to do with law enforcement and are instead being used as a political tool to weaken opposition activity. Mauroof highlighted that the repeated targeting of frontline activists reflects a deliberate effort to create fear among those actively engaging in political dissent.

Following the large-scale protest held in the capital Malé City on October 3, police have issued multiple summons to MDP members identified as being at the forefront of the demonstrations. Several individuals have also been charged, and investigations are reportedly ongoing.

Observers note that the escalating use of police summons against opposition figures mirrors a broader pattern of state institutions being used to stifle dissent, a trend that, if unchecked, could further erode public confidence in the country’s law enforcement and democratic institutions.