EC fines PNF MVR 100,000 over protest activities
The Elections Commission had previously warned that action would be taken, stating that the activities violated the code of conduct governing political parties.
Top Stories
-
Nasheed says allegations against president are personal matters
-
Opposition calls journalist sentences attack on press freedom
-
Kulhudhuffushi parade entries barred from using names and photos
-
Maldives legalises ADHD medication methylphenidate
-
Woman sentenced to 6 years for blackmail, pornographic material
The People's National Front (PNF) has been fined MVR 100,000 by the Elections Commission (EC) over alleged violations of political party regulations during recent public activities.
Supporters of the PNF have been holding demonstrations since the release of a documentary by Adhadhu on 28 March containing allegations relating to President Mohamed Muizzu.
As part of the nightly gatherings, protesters have also placed a sofa on the streets during demonstrations.
The Elections Commission had previously warned that action would be taken, stating that the activities violated the code of conduct governing political parties.
In a letter sent to the party leadership and signed by EC Vice President Abdul Rahman Salah Rashid, the commission stated that the PNF had failed to obtain permits required under the Regulation on Political Parties for public gatherings.
The EC further stated that despite repeated violations and observations of conduct deemed inappropriate during the events, the party had failed to cooperate with the commission.
According to the commission, the PNF also declined requests to attend meetings arranged by the EC to provide explanations regarding the activities.
As a result, the commission imposed a fine of MVR 100,000 on the party and warned that further legal action could be taken against individuals involved if similar violations continue.
In earlier responses to the EC, the PNF stated that it does not organise activities on public streets and maintained that its only official events are town hall meetings conducted at the party office.
The party also challenged the commission to identify specific legal or regulatory breaches occurring within those meetings.
Following the fine, the PNF criticised the EC’s decision, claiming the action was politically influenced and taken without proper consideration of the party’s earlier response.
The party further alleged that the commission had acted beyond the professional standards expected of an independent institution.
Separately, the Maldives Broadcasting Commission has reportedly instructed Channel 13 to stop live broadcasts of the demonstrations.
