HRCM urges respect for rights in protests
HRCM urged demonstrators to conduct their rallies in a manner that does not disrupt traffic or cause inconvenience to the public.
The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) on Thursday issued a statement urging both demonstrators and law enforcement agencies to respect the constitutional right to freedom of assembly while ensuring public order and safety.
As the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) continues its rallies in Male, the HRCM has been closely monitoring the situation. The commission has called on law enforcement agencies to facilitate peaceful assemblies within the legal framework and to use force only when necessary and in accordance with the law.
The HRCM emphasised the importance of allowing media personnel to cover protests without interference. The statement underscored the need for transparency in such events and cautioned against obstructing journalists in their work.
At the same time, the commission condemned certain incidents observed during the demonstrations. It noted that a child was addressed in a manner that could harm his dignity, stating that such actions should not occur in the name of freedom of expression. The authorities have been urged to prevent such incidents from happening again.
The commission acknowledged reports of clashes between MDP protesters and police, with several demonstrators sustaining injuries. The HRCM also observed that protesters attempted to enter restricted areas, such as streets within green zones, using loudspeakers. Law enforcement officers intervened to prevent unauthorised entry into these areas.
The HRCM urged demonstrators to conduct their rallies in a manner that does not disrupt traffic or cause inconvenience to the public. The commission stressed the importance of maintaining peace and ensuring that protests do not lead to unnecessary disturbances.
The HRCM reiterated that while the right to assemble is protected by the constitution, demonstrations should be conducted within legal boundaries. If necessary, law enforcement agencies have been urged to disperse protests lawfully, ensuring that their actions remain within the legal framework.
