MDP seeks repeal of law requiring protest permits

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has proposed repealing the Freedom of Assembly Act, arguing that it imposes unconstitutional restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly.

The bill, submitted by South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, was scheduled for its first reading during Tuesday’s parliamentary session.

According to the bill’s preamble, its purpose is to “enable the people to enjoy the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution to the widest extent possible.” It argues that the powers and responsibilities of the Maldives Police Service are already defined under other laws, making the Assembly Act redundant.

The Constitution of the Maldives guarantees the right to peaceful assembly without prior permission. However, the Freedom of Assembly Act, particularly following a 2016 amendment, requires prior written permission from the police for gatherings in most public areas. The law also limits assemblies to locations designated by the Home Ministry.

Initially, only the Alimas Carnival area in Male' was designated for such gatherings. The current administration has since added Rasfannu in Maafannu and Usfasgandu in Henveiru to the list.

Opposition lawmakers have long criticized the law for undermining democratic freedoms. Meekail’s proposal to repeal the Act comes shortly after Attorney General Ahmed Usham told Parliament on October 15 that the government intends to revise the legislation. While Usham confirmed that amendments are part of the administration’s legislative agenda, he did not specify whether the 2016 restrictions would be repealed.

The 2016 amendment was introduced during the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, amid heightened political tensions. It remains one of the most contested legal provisions related to civil liberties in the Maldives.