MDP’s “In Defense of the Constitution” Rally in Highlights

Hundreds of supporters of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) convened at the Carnival Area in Malé City on Tuesday night for a rally titled “In Defence of the Constitution.” Reports indicate that attendees included party supporters from various islands within the atoll, reflecting the MDP’s organisational strength in its largest event in months.

The rally was preceded by a meeting of the party’s National Majlis, during which former Defence Minister and MDP’s Galolhu North Constituency President, Mariya Ahmed Didi, proposed a petition urging the President to reverse recent constitutional amendments. These amendments, passed last month, strip MPs of their seats if they leave or are dismissed from the party under which they were elected.

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All members of the National Majlis unanimously agreed to pass the petition. Mariya stated that the petition would be circulated nationwide to collect signatures in support of the initiative.

The rally featured speeches from prominent figures, including former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, former ministers, and members of parliament. The National Majlis also passed key resolutions, including plans to expand opposition protests nationwide and pledges to support MPs who lose their seats after switching to the MDP or leaving the ruling party. MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail stated that the party had designated members to assume leadership roles should the current leadership face imprisonment.

Former President Warns of “Dark Days”  

In his address, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih expressed concern about what he described as a looming shift towards autocratic rule.  

He aimed a sharp criticism of the constitutional amendment, saying that it contravenes provisions in the constitution that stipulate that parliament members must work for the people. 

“I believe only one of these articles can exist. It’s either that you work for the benefit of the people or you do as the party tells you to. We have to chose one or the other”

Solih accused the government of undermining constitutional rights, creating economic hardships, destroying businesses, and attempting to control independent institutions. He urged citizens to act decisively.  

“We see a dark cloud looming and dark days ahead of us—fearful, dangerous, and difficult days. If we don’t work together now, we will face oppressive times,” he said.  

The next step for the administration will be to change the supreme court to consolidate even more control and power, he warned.

Criticism from Former Ministers and MPs  

Former Environment Minister Aminath Shauna also spoke, accusing the administration of dishonesty and reversing progress.  

“The country is going backwards. The state’s leaders are taking away the rights that we fought for. We will not stay quiet,” she said.  

Baa Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir delivered a pointed critique of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, accusing him of deceit and suggesting that the government could face removal if public trust eroded.  

“If the people decide the President is a liar, we have to bring him down,” Zakir declared. He cited examples from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, arguing that a government seen as dishonest could be replaced before completing its term.  

“If the constitution is destroyed, people need to come out and bring down the government. We have to act,” he added.