Govt denies role in attack on Malé mayor
He added that the Maldives Police Service initiated an inquiry after footage of the incident circulated on social media.
The government has denied any involvement in the assault on Malé City Mayor Adam Azim during a rally organised by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), while confirming that police have begun an investigation.
Chief Spokesperson at the President’s Office, Mohamed Hussain Shareef, said on Saturday that the incident has no connection to the government. He added that the Maldives Police Service initiated an inquiry after footage of the incident circulated on social media.
The incident occurred on Friday night during a protest in Malé. Video footage shows an individual approaching the Mayor and pushing him while he was leading the march. People accompanying the Mayor were seen responding following the incident.
The Mayor later sought treatment at ADK Hospital.
Mayor Azim has alleged that the attack was planned by the government. In response, the spokesperson said the President, Mohamed Muizzu, had viewed the footage and condemned the act.
“This incident has no connection to the government. The claims made are not supported by evidence,” the spokesperson said.
The statement added that any attack on an elected official is unacceptable and noted that such incidents should be reported to the police.
The spokesperson also said the Mayor is entitled to request state security. He added that police carry out threat assessments for public officials and may provide security based on identified risks.
