Maldivians Will Respond to Injustice, Says Fayyaz

Chairman of the Maldives Democratic Party (MDP), Fayyaz Ismail, has asserted that Maldivians will respond to injustice if wronged, emphasising the importance of historical awareness in political discourse.

Fayyaz made the statement during a press conference, addressing remarks delivered at a recent rally in HDh. Kulhudhuffushi. The rally featured a speaker who referenced President Mohamed Muizzu, suggesting that government policies—such as recent changes to tobacco regulations—could lead to consequences reminiscent of the overthrow of former President Mohamed Ameen in 1953. Ameen’s presidency ended following widespread discontent.

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When questioned about the controversial remarks, Fayyaz clarified that they were intended as an advisory rather than a threat.

Fayyaz highlighted the challenges of fostering a tradition of “kind politics” in the Maldives, noting, “So, I don’t know if it’s Mohamed Ameen or ‘Andhiri Andhireen.’ Don’t be cruel to the people. If you are cruel, the people of Maldives will play by the history books.”

The press conference also addressed recent developments involving the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM), which sent a letter urging the MDP to “act within the legal framework.” Fayyaz indicated he was unaware of the specific details of the letter but defended the party’s conduct.

Despite the scrutiny, he reaffirmed the MDP’s commitment to upholding the rights of Maldivians, stressing that the party’s rhetoric is grounded in historical context and a responsibility to protect the people’s interests.