MDP must take to the streets against the merging of the two elections to offer hope to the people: Raee
20 ފެބުރުއަރީ 2026 | ހުކުރު 10:27Former Member of Parliament Mohamed Raee has urged the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to launch large-scale street protests against the government's efforts to synchronize parliamentary and local council elections. Contending that the opportunity to hold the government accountable within Parliament has been obstructed, Raee called for immediate demonstrations to protect public rights. He further argued that merging the elections would hinder the authentic expression of the people's will, calling on citizens from across the Maldives to gather in Male' to voice their opposition.
Mohamed Raee, the former Member of Parliament for the Makunudhoo constituency. | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
Former Member of Parliament for the Makunudhoo constituency, Mohamed Raee, has stated that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) must take to the streets to protest the government's efforts to hold local council and parliamentary elections simultaneously, in order to offer hope to the public.
Raee made these remarks while addressing a meeting of the MDP National Congress.
Speaking at the National Congress meeting, Raee stated that the responsibility of a major party like the MDP extends far beyond merely submitting resolutions and passing motions. He emphasized that the party must now decide to take to the streets and launch activities immediately, arguing against wasting further time by forming additional committees. Raee further noted that as the MDP is a party intrinsically linked to the hopes of the Maldivian people, it is their duty to take to the streets to advocate for the rights of the citizens.
Discussions are currently underway regarding the synchronization of two elections. However, the local council election historically sees the lowest voter turnout in the country. Compared to the parliamentary and presidential elections, this is the one where public participation is at its lowest. Consequently, such an election cannot clearly reflect the true will of the people. Therefore, we must take to the streets and voice a resounding "no." We must offer hope to the people of the Maldives and to the members of the MDP before they fall into total despair regarding our cause.Mohamed Raee, the former Member of Parliament for the Makunudhoo constituency.
Raee further stated that the Parliament is currently unable to function effectively, as the government has obstructed the 12 MDP members within the house from fulfilling their roles. He noted that the public is now in a state of despair and asserted that the only way to restore hope is for the MDP to take to the streets. Calling for protests to commence immediately on Thursday, Raee expressed confidence that the MDP possesses the necessary energy and resolve to lead such activities.
Raee has called for this movement to be conducted on a scale even larger than a local council election campaign. He urged councilors and general members from the islands to travel to Male' to protest against the government. Raee warned that failing to do so would allow President Muizzu to act at his own discretion, leading to an increase in theft and corruption.
