Rights lost in the past led people to the streets, says Faisal

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has called on the government to reflect on past events, warning that attempts to take away citizens’ rights have previously led to public unrest and demands for change.

Faisal made the remarks on Thursday night during an opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) protest held under the banner “Dhathi Vejje” (“Things Have Become Difficult”) on Majeedhee Magu.

The demonstration saw confrontations between protesters and police after law enforcement blocked participants from proceeding along the road.

Addressing supporters at the protest, Faisal said people had gathered despite the weather because they were facing increasing difficulties in their daily lives and wished to exercise rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

“People have gathered here in this rain because circumstances have become difficult,” Faisal said. “We want to tell the police not to break the law. We are here to exercise a right granted to us by law. Give us space to move forward down this street.”

Faisal said the rights being defended by the MDP were secured through years of political struggle and should not be taken for granted.

He argued that many citizens are facing challenges related to the cost of living and access to essential goods and services.

According to Faisal, households across the country are discussing increasing economic pressures, including difficulties in obtaining medicines, essential items and foreign currency.

He also criticised the government's record in office, urging the public to assess what had been achieved since the administration took power.

“As three years approach, people should consider what has been done for the benefit of citizens,” he said.

Faisal further alleged that government spending decisions had contributed to the challenges currently facing the public.

“On top of nothing being accomplished, things are slipping beyond our reach. We are in this situation because of so much wastefulness,” he said.

The former vice president warned that governments should not ignore concerns over civil liberties, citing historical examples where the restriction of rights led to wider public opposition.

“When rights are stripped away like this, far worse situations arise when people eventually step out to demand them back,” Faisal said. “The government must think carefully about this.”

He added that the MDP would continue working to defend the rights of citizens and urged the government to take public concerns seriously and respond without delay.

Faisal, who has also expressed interest in seeking the presidency in the future, made the remarks as the opposition party continues its campaign focusing on economic issues, governance and public rights.