Speaker slams Fayyaz's remarks on pres; calls for serious action

Parliament Speaker and Progressive National Congress (PNC) Chairman Abdul Raheem Abdulla on Tuesday criticised remarks made by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairman Fayyaz Ismail, stating that they encourage terrorism and urged relevant institutions to take the comments seriously.

Fayyaz addressed comments made by an MDP supporter at a rally in HDh. Kulhudhuffushi on government's recent changes in tobacco regulations, likening them to the treatment of former President Mohamed Amin.

Fayyaz, during a press conference, appeared to caution against actions that could provoke public unrest. He stated, “If you are unjust, others will be unjust. If there is cruelty, the people of the Maldives will act according to the history books.”

He further elaborated, “This was advice not to repeat historical mistakes. Do not treat the people with cruelty. If you are cruel, the history books will record the actions of the Maldivian people.”

Abdul Raheem responded to Fayyaz’s remarks in a post on the social media platform ‘X,’ condemning them as an endorsement of violence.

“Such statements encourage terrorism. Institutions must take immediate and serious action. It is especially concerning when made by someone holding a prominent position in the opposition party,” he said.

Farahnaz Faisal, granddaughter of former President Mohamed Amin and the Maldivian ambassador to the UK in the MDP government, also expressed dissatisfaction with Fayyaz’s comments. She emphasised that actions outside the bounds of Islamic Sharia are unacceptable, stating, “Islam does not allow individuals to take justice into their own hands or resort to violence.”

Former President Mohamed Amin’s death resulted from injuries sustained during a clash involving political leaders and members of the public. The incident remains a significant moment in Maldivian history, highlighting the need for careful discourse on governance and justice.