Backlash over having to disclose social media details for one-day driver's license program
The program was kicked off on Friday evening and it will continue on 26th May, Saturday as well as May 28th, Monday
Parked motorbikes in the license testing area
Participants of the one-day driver's license program has criticised the requirement to disclose social media details.
'Ehlakin Mashah License' organized by the Transport Authority was kicked off on Friday evening and will also be held on Saturday and Monday.
The application form requires participants fill in their Instagram and Facebook usernames, as well as Viber and Whatsapp contact details.
Some have questioned whether the government is collecting their information for the upcoming presidential election.
The application forms also lacked the the government's stamp. As a result people have asked whether it is a campain run by the government on behalf of the ruling party.
RaajjeMV was not able to get a comment from Transport Ministry since its Chairman, Mahudhy Imad, did not pick up the phone.
However, Mahudhy has informed some media stations that the reason to include social media details was to provide traffic information to the participants.
Since 'ehlakin' is the slogan used for President Abdulla Yameen's campaign this year, the public suspects 'Ehlakin Mashah License' program to be part of his campaign activities.
Over 100 individuals partook in the program on Friday, and some reported receiving their license at around 2:00 am.
After concluding the program in the capital city, Male', Transport Ministry plans on conducting it in Hulhumale'. The ministry has also announced that they will be conducting the program in other islands with a sizable populations.
