Nasheed and MDP protesters

Security Forces have arrested some people and ‘chased away’ MDP protesters and former President Nasheed when they attempted to gather near the President’s Office.

Nasheed was near Velaanaage building at around 14:30 today with some MDP leaders, calling to speed up the Veshifahi program and the handing over of flats to people.

When Nasheed and his associates finished their speeches, MDP members gathered near the President’s Office, following which Nasheed, Macchangolhi Uthuru MP Mariya Ahmed Didi, MDP Interim Chairperson Reeko Moosa Manik, and former Home Minister Hassan Afeef left the scene.

Police clad in riot gear chased away the crowd which had begun protesting against the government near the President’s Office. Some people who refused to obey orders were arrested.

MDP protesters then gathered near Medhu Ziyaaraiy. The Police chased them away as well, and arrested about six lead activists including women.

The protesters were heard shouting at the Police using offensive language, which led to even more arrests.

The protest came to an end at around 15:30.