Muizzu labels all opposition council candidates a threat as arrests and protest crackdowns persist
Muizzu urged voters to elect pro-government candidates in upcoming local council elections, claiming opposition candidates would undermine stability and development. He stated political vengeance has ended and there are no political prisoners, but critics point to the recent arrest and injury of opposition MP Mauroof during a fishermen's protest, and previous arrests at opposition demonstrations where police used excessive force.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu speaking at an event | President's Office
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has characterized all opposition candidates contesting the upcoming local council elections as individuals who would undermine national stability.
Speaking at an event held by the main ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) on Saturday afternoon, Muizzu stated that he remains committed to the public, expressing his intention to hold regular engagements and advance alongside the people. He added that the government’s work is being carried out in coordination with the heads of state institutions to align with the wishes of the public.
The president claimed that national stability has been established in parallel with the implementation of various development projects. He asserted that candidates elected in the forthcoming local council elections should be those who support the government, cautioning against electing individuals whom he suggested could obstruct development and revive social unrest.
Muizzu further stated that the era of political vengeance has ended in the country and claimed that there are currently no political prisoners. He also maintained that freedom of assembly is now being facilitated more broadly than in the past.
These statements, however, come amid criticism following the arrest of Mauroof Zakir, Secretary General of the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) and main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party Member of Parliament for Kendhoo constituency, on 11 December 2025. Mauroof was arrested during a protest near Malé City staged by fishermen who alleged that the president had failed to honor promises made to the fishing industry. Reports indicate that he sustained serious injuries during the arrest after being forcibly dragged down a boat ladder.
In addition to this, seven individuals were previously arrested and forwarded for prosecution in connection with the opposition “Lootuvaifi! Lootuvaifi!” protest, although the decision to pursue charges was later withdrawn. Those detained included former parliamentarians and local councilors.
That MDP-led protest drew thousands of participants and saw police intervention when demonstrators attempted to march along Majeedhee Magu. Authorities were reported to have employed disproportionate force, including the use of pepper spray and, for the first time, sonic weapons against protesters.
