Less than 12 hours after stating there were no plans to take action against opposition protests, calls are made to penalize those participating in demonstrations

Less than 12 hours after President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu stated during Monday’s press conference that protesters were violating established standards but he had no intention of taking action against them, the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has called for the right to freedom of expression to be exercised in accordance with Islamic principles and urged authorities to take action.

During Monday's press conference, the President emphasized that while the right to protest exists, it must be exercised in accordance with laws and regulations. He noted that street protests cause significant disruption to the daily lives of citizens and the operations of businesses. He advised that democratic rights should be exercised with these considerations in mind. The President stated that regardless of the location of a gathering, both actions and language must remain within the bounds of the law and Islamic principles. He further noted that the administration currently exercises significant restraint in taking enforcement action, providing as much leeway as possible before intervening.

Following the President's remarks, the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) issued a press release on Monday expressing concern over ongoing nightly protests in Male' City organized by certain political parties. The Commission noted that speakers at these gatherings have been using language that violates public social standards. The HRCM further highlighted that the dissemination of such rhetoric through the media is inciting public hatred and encouraging unrest. The Commission observed that various individuals affiliated with these political parties are increasingly making statements that provoke discord and undermine social harmony.

The statement emphasized that the freedom of thought and the liberty to express one's opinions and ideas—whether through speech, writing, or other mediums—is a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 27 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives, provided such expressions do not contravene the core tenets of Islam. The statement further noted that while the Constitution grants a broad scope for freedom of expression, this right must be exercised within specific boundaries and in a manner that maintains respect for the rights of others.

In a statement, the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) asserted that sentiments expressed during political rallies, through the media, or on social platforms that incite hatred, threaten social stability, or encourage acts of violence are contrary to the spirit of the right to freedom of expression guaranteed to all citizens under the Constitution.

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has expressed grave concern over expressions and rhetoric that incite such actions. The Commission condemned these acts and urged political parties and their leadership to refrain from such conduct. Furthermore, it called upon relevant state institutions to take firm action within the legal framework to address these issues.

The Commission urges all individuals to prioritize respect for human dignity and the rights of others while exercising the right to freedom of expression guaranteed under Article 27 of the Constitution. We call on the public to refrain from any actions that incite violence or encourage civil unrest. Furthermore, we appeal to all political parties to ensure that their activities and expressions of opinion do not infringe upon the reputation or well-being of others, nor foster hatred. It is imperative that political parties prioritize public interest and organize their activities in a manner that prevents such incidents from occurring. Additionally, the Commission calls upon the state security forces to provide full cooperation to political parties in facilitating political activities conducted in accordance with established regulations.

Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM)

In a statement, the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has urged all political parties to conduct their activities peacefully and within the established legal framework.