Joint opposition calls on VP to allow them to hold rally in GDH. Thinadhoo

The joint opposition has called on vice president Abdulla Jihad to allow them to hold a rally in Thinadhoo island of Gaafu Dhaalu island.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday evening, opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s deputy chair for administration, Ali Niyaz alleged that the government is working to stop them from holding the rally in Thinadhoo.

Niyaz said that according to their sources, police officers have obtained court orders to search the area where the rally is to be held.

He emphasized that there is nothing illegal about the gathering, 'not even on any of the banners,' and further assured that none of the participants 'will be involved in any unlawful activities either'.

This is part of the opposition's series of gatherings, being held in the constituencies of those MPs that the Election Commission (EC) has deemed 'no longer members of the parliament,' following a controversial Supreme Court ruling.

Following the Supreme Court ruling that banned floor crossing, the Commission had declared that Thinadhoo South constituency MP Abdulla Ahmed and Thinadhoo North constituency MP Saudhulla Hilmy were among the MPs that lost their seats in parliament. Both members are currently in Thinadhoo, to take part in the opposition's gathering.

"The people of Thinadhoo are with their elected representatives," said Niyaz, adding that through the rally, "we will see just how much support Thinadhoo has for the opposition".

Niyaz further called on the Election Commission, 'to create an environment conducive for holding a credible, free and fair elections next year'.

Current vice president Abdulla Jihad is from Thinadhoo island.