Ihusaan: MDP's actions during protest raise doubts about peaceful intent

Home Minister Ali Ihusaan has stated that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s conduct during the "Lootuvaalaifi" protest indicated that their demonstration was not intended to be peaceful.

The opposition MDP's rally on Friday evening escalated, leading to several arrests by the Police. The exact number of arrests remains unconfirmed.

In a post on X, Minister Ihusaan referenced the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act of 2013, noting that any peaceful assembly planned outside designated areas requires prior approval from the Maldives Police Service for the chosen location.

Under the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act of 2013, any peaceful assembly planned outside designated areas requires approval from the Maldives Police Service for the chosen location. The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) submitted a request for a specific route for their event.… pic.twitter.com/vD3Vi0hT8z

— Minister of Homeland Security & Technology (@min_mohst) October 3, 2025

Ihusaan acknowledged in his post that the MDP had sought permission for "a specific route" for their march, Majeedhee Magu, which was the most likely intended route to continue from their rally meeting point at Artificial Beach.

However, he stated that considering the traffic on Majeedhee Magu and the safety of the protesters, the police approved an alternative route.

"However, due to heavy traffic on Majeedhee Magu and to prioritize the safety and security of participants, the police approved an alternative route," Ihusaan wrote.

When the rally proceeded along Majeedhee Magu as initially planned and requested, the Police attempted to intervene. Ihusaan wrote that this action was "suggesting that their intent may not have been to hold a peaceful event."

He concluded his post by stating that the government remains committed to upholding the right to freedom of expression, "ensuring the safety and rights of all individuals are protected."

Police reported that protesters threw items at officers and obstructed them from carrying out their duties, and therefore, legal action will be taken against those involved in such acts.

Muzaaharaage enme kuriah kureege Raees Ibrahim Mohamed Solih vadaigenfi. annmunaa fuluhunnaa dhemedhu mihaaru ves ahnany hamanujehun hingamun.
Live Blog: https://t.co/nEfjRJivjs#sunonline #news #sunonlineheadlines #latestnews #dhivehinews #maldivesnews pic.twitter.com/on1HtYjstG

— sun.mv (@sunbrk) October 3, 2025

Close to midnight, Adhaalath Party President Sheikh Imran Abdulla led a prayer, signaling the rally's conclusion. The protest officially ended a few minutes after midnight.

Protesters were also reportedly sprayed with pepper spray, leading the MDP to accuse the police of brutality. The party also called for the release of those arrested.

Notably, Maldives Red Crescent volunteers were on the ground providing first aid support during the protest.