MDP to hold major rally on March 21; a golden opportunity to say 'no' to President Muizzu, says MP Mauroof
MDP has announced a series of activities to oppose a proposed referendum allegedly planned by the government to extend the presidential term. The party stated that a major protest scheduled for March 21 in Male' serves as a critical opportunity for citizens to reject authoritarian rule. Emphasizing that elections should not be canceled due to high costs, the MDP asserted that it will not allow democratic principles to be undermined.
Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, Mauroof Zakir, speaks at a press conference held by the MDP on Sunday. | RaajjeMV | RaajjeMV
Mauroof Zakir, the Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, has stated that participating in the major rally scheduled by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in Male' on March 21 is a golden opportunity for the public to say "no" to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Speaking at a press conference held by the MDP on Sunday, Mauroof stated that the party is organizing several activities to urge the public to vote "no" in the upcoming referendum. He characterized the vote as a deceptive maneuver by the current administration to extend its presidential term.
Mauroof announced that a major rally is scheduled for the 21st of next month, describing it as a golden opportunity for all citizens to collectively reject President Muizzu. The member urged the public to seize this opportunity and travel to Male' to participate in the gathering.
Mauroof stated that he urges citizens to travel to Male' on that day to join the MDP in protesting for the sake of Maldivians' freedom and against authoritarian rule. The member further noted that these protests will be conducted in accordance with all laws and regulations.
We will continue our protests within the boundaries and frameworks established by the laws and regulations. The government should not believe that they can force us to back down by filing charges against me or any of our members.Mauroof Zakir, Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency.
Mauroof stated that the government is urging citizens to vote in favor of the referendum scheduled for April 4, arguing that the change would reduce costs and increase convenience for the public. However, Mauroof countered this by asserting that the Maldivian people do not consider the current voting process to be a burden or a difficulty.
The Maldivian people do not believe that holding elections—which are vital opportunities for them to voice their concerns—should be abandoned due to high costs. Furthermore, the public does not accept the notion that implementing democracy is an expense that should be avoided or deemed unaffordable. Therefore, during our campaign travels across the islands for the local council elections, we have been clearly explaining this issue. The public understands the message we are conveying. Citizens firmly believe that interfering with the electoral process is absolutely unacceptable, as is any attempt to extend the presidential term.Mauroof Zakir, Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency.
Mauroof stated that the MDP is intensifying its campaign efforts through pickup-truck rallies, motorcycle processions, and town hall meetings, adding that these activities will continue with even greater momentum in the coming days. He also noted that the public response to these initiatives has been overwhelmingly positive.
