MDP files complaint with HRCM alleging that government is infringing upon rights of citizens by using employment as a tool to influence votes

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has called on the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) to investigate and take action against the government, alleging that it is infringing upon citizens' rights through job-related influence. The opposition party claims these actions are intended to unfairly sway the upcoming Local Council Elections, Women's Development Committee elections, and public referendums.

On Monday, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) shared its concerns regarding the upcoming elections with the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM). Speaking to RaajjeTV following the meeting, Shathir Abdul Rahman, the MDP National Congress President for the Kudahuvadhoo constituency, stated that the government is currently distributing jobs in an attempt to influence the vote.

This situation has resulted in the infringement of numerous individuals' rights, while members of the political opposition are being subjected to threats and intimidation regarding their employment.

The Referendum Committee met with the Human Rights Commission to share our concerns regarding the upcoming referendum vote. We informed them that we have already approached numerous state institutions with these significant grievances. However, there is not a single institution in this country willing to respond. All relevant state bodies have disregarded the law and are instead working in lockstep to execute the process exactly as President Muizzu has instructed.

Shathir Abdul Rahman, President of the MDP National Congress' Kudahuvadhoo Constituency.

Shathir stated that government institutions are intimidating and harassing opposition supporters by threatening them with dismissal from their jobs. He further noted that some individuals are being subjected to additional hardship by being forcibly transferred to work on islands away from their home islands.

Shathir further noted that one of the primary concerns raised was the disenfranchisement of a significant number of voters. He highlighted the decision not to place ballot boxes abroad, particularly in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia, which are home to large populations of Maldivian citizens.

Furthermore, Shathir noted that the MDP has highlighted how the decision not to place ballot boxes on industrial islands and resorts deprives a significant number of people of their fundamental rights.

Shathir stated that as no other institution has addressed these concerns, the MDP has formally requested the HRCM to investigate the matter and take necessary action.