Activist summoned over physical threat in social media post

Homeland security minister Ali Ihsan announced Saturday that Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) activist Hussain Shafiu has been summoned by police over a post on X (formerly Twitter) allegedly containing threats of physical harm.

Shafiu, using the handle @charlie_thuthu, has been directed to appear at the police station at 1:30 pm on Sunday. The summons pertains to a post reportedly using obscene language and the phrase, "Don’t see me on the street," which Ihsan says implies a threat of physical harm to an individual.

The minister, addressing criticism regarding the summons, stated that authorities need to investigate the post and provide clarification. He questioned whether such language would be dismissed if directed at MDP Chairman Fayyaz Ismail, who has criticised the government, claiming the summons is an attempt to suppress dissent.

“And if you are physically assaulted on the street, should it be dismissed as an opinion? Is this the standard for addressing such matters under your leadership?” Ihsan wrote in response to Fayyaz's remarks.

Ihsan reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of all individuals, stating that freedom of expression must align with the country’s laws and regulations.

“It is irresponsible to politicise such incidents,” he said.

Shafiu's post is believed to reference changes in cigarette prices, containing an expletive directed at a specific individual followed by the remark, "I bought a box for 270 tonight!"

Police have not provided further details on the investigation.