Entire nation is deteriorating and facing destruction; freedoms and rights guaranteed by Constitution cannot simply be snatched away at will: Faisal Naseem

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has stated that the Maldives is currently facing total ruin and destruction, asserting that the freedoms and rights guaranteed to citizens by the law cannot be seized at will.

Speaking at a campaign rally held in Male' on Monday night for former Addu City Mayor "Sodiq," who is contesting the North Hithadhoo seat in the upcoming parliamentary elections, Faisal stated that the powers and rights secured through the tireless efforts of many have now been entirely lost.

Faisal stated that the public made the greatest sacrifices during the efforts to reform the Constitution. He noted that the contributions made by citizens—whether from the gallery, outside the chambers, across the islands, or by traveling to Male'—were invaluable. Faisal further emphasized that these collective efforts were instrumental in securing the freedoms of the press, expression, and assembly.

We are witnessing the total erosion of the powers and rights we once secured. The entire nation is being systematically dismantled and destroyed. My message to the Maldivian people today is that every passing day represents the loss of our fundamental rights and our sovereignty. Therefore, I call upon the entire population to stand up in unity. The truth is that our Constitution provides the framework for everything; it outlines the mechanisms to rectify matters when they go astray. Today, we are left with no other choice. The people of Addu are electing "Sodiq" for the North Hithadhoo constituency to inject new momentum into this cause and to ensure these efforts move forward with renewed vigor.

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem

However, Faisal stated that all rights are being stripped away and seized today. He further noted that press freedom has been completely lost in the current climate. Faisal reiterated that freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and the rights and liberties guaranteed to citizens by the Constitution cannot simply be snatched away at will.

Faisal stated that as the current administration moves to strip citizens of their constitutional rights, the public must take a stand to bring about change.