Government ministries and state-owned enterprises are organizing various activities in a deliberate attempt to obstruct May Day protest
Several government ministries and state-owned enterprises have scheduled special events to mark International Workers' Day, including a barbecue hosted by MPL and a march organized by the Ministry of Homeland Security; however, some workers allege these activities are a strategic move to stifle anti-government protests and obstruct planned rallies advocating for labor rights.
A scene from the protest organized by the MDP on Tuesday. | MDP
Allegations have surfaced that government ministries and state-owned enterprises have scheduled various activities in an attempt to obstruct the upcoming May Day protest.
International Workers' Day is observed annually on the 1st of May. To mark this occasion, rallies and peaceful demonstrations are held every year to advocate for the rights of workers.
However, various government ministries and state-owned enterprises have decided to hold a range of activities to commemorate this year's Labour Day.
According to reports, Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has decided to hold a barbecue event with mandatory attendance for all employees.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has decided to hold a special event on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. According to a notice sent to staff, the event will commence on Boduthakurufaanu Magu near King Salman Mosque and conclude at the Social Centre area. Additionally, various activities are scheduled to take place on Majeedhee Magu, specifically in the stretch between the Social Centre and Maafannu Madharusa.
The organization has also encouraged as many employees as possible to participate in this activity.
Regarding these activities, many workers have described them as a calculated move by the government to obstruct potential anti-government protests. They noted that since the current administration has imposed significant hardships on the workforce, officials are well aware that any organized protest would draw a large public turnout.
