Nasheed warns president not to cross ‘red line’ on citizens’ rights
Nasheed urged the President to change course and avoid crossing what he described as a "red line" relating to constitutional rights.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu not to infringe upon the constitutional rights of citizens, warning that any attempt to restrict fundamental freedoms would not be accepted by the public.
Nasheed made the remarks on Monday during a campaign event in GA. Villingili as part of his bid for the chairmanship of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
Addressing party members, Nasheed accused the government of encroaching on civil liberties and said the administration was exhibiting characteristics reminiscent of earlier periods of centralised rule.
"That is completely unacceptable. Dr Muizzu’s actions are steering the Maldives towards the brink of a revolution once again," Nasheed said.
He argued that governments which fail to respect public rights eventually lose public support, adding that citizens would not tolerate continued restrictions on their freedoms.
"What Dr Muizzu needs to understand is that you cannot play with the Maldivian people the way you are trying to," he said. "There is no need to act with an overconfident, free hand. We will reduce Dr Muizzu’s support down to five per cent."
Nasheed urged the President to change course and avoid crossing what he described as a "red line" relating to constitutional rights.
Responding to a comment from the audience, Nasheed added that personal matters were irrelevant when it came to public freedoms.
"Even if he is wandering around madly in love, we do not care. Our rights cannot be violated. No obstacles will be placed in the way of our freedom and our prosperity," he said.
Nasheed argued that economic progress is linked to individual freedoms and the ability of citizens to participate in business and political activity without restriction.
He said freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and the right to engage in peaceful political activity were essential for national progress, warning that curtailing such rights would have wider consequences for society.
Nasheed also said the MDP would oppose any measures it viewed as limiting those freedoms and reiterated his call for the party to return to government in 2028.
According to Nasheed, this would require a stronger and more organised party structure, which he pledged to help build if elected MDP chairperson.
"I do not even know if Dr Muizzu will remain in office by the time 2028 arrives," Nasheed said. "He seems to be doing everything in his power to ensure he does not stay in government."
