The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) has expressed concern over what it described as the obstruction of police duties and the assault of an officer during a protest held in Malé by supporters of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the People’s National Front (PNF).
The demonstration began at the junction of Majeedhee Magu and Chaandhanee Magu, with protesters demanding the release of Adhadhu journalists Mohamed Shahzan and Leevan Ali Naseer, who were recently jailed for contempt of court.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed also participated in the gathering, which initially started near Artificial Beach in Henveiru before protesters marched through the capital.
Following speeches delivered at the gathering, MDP supporters joined demonstrators aligned with the PNF, who had assembled earlier near the residence of former President Abdulla Yameen.
The crowd later proceeded along Majeedhee Magu and into Alikilegefaanu Magu toward the Presidential Residence, Muliaage, where officers from the Maldives Police Service’s Specialized Operations unit stopped the march.
In a statement issued after the protest, the PNC said the government had expanded designated protest areas in Malé over the past two years and remained committed to protecting freedom of expression. However, the party urged opposition groups to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and within legal limits.
PNC spokesperson Mohamed Firzul Abdulla Haleel criticized the use of offensive language during the protest and accused demonstrators of deliberately obstructing traffic during peak evening hours, arguing that such actions would negatively affect public perception of the opposition.
The ruling party also stated that despite disruptions, police officers allowed the protest to continue late into the night before requesting organizers to disperse. According to the PNC, those leading the demonstration refused to comply with instructions.
The statement further praised police officers for what the party described as professionalism and restraint while managing the situation, noting that the crowd was dispersed without the use of force.
