Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Khaleel has issued a strong statement defending the Maldives Police Service and condemning the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) for defying agreed protest routes, spreading disinformation, and provoking clashes with law enforcement officers in Malé.
Posting on X, Minister Khaleel clarified that the police acted in full accordance with the Freedom of Assembly Act (Act No. 1/2013). He revealed that, after discussions with the MDP, Boduthakurufaanu Magu was designated as the lawful protest route. However, under the direct guidance of party leadership, demonstrators defied the agreement, forced their way into Majeedhee Magu, broke barricades, and seized police shields, obstructing officers from carrying out their duties.
“Despite repeated provocations, police acted within the law and with restraint to maintain order,” Minister Khaleel stated, warning the opposition to stop spreading disinformation about the events.
His remarks follow escalating attempts by MDP-linked figures to portray the protest as peaceful, despite verified footage showing protesters attacking police, violating agreed routes, and causing public disorder.
Minister Khaleel’s statement also serves as an important message to the international community, reaffirming that the Maldivian government remains committed to democratic freedoms and lawful expression, while standing firm against those who exploit those freedoms to incite violence or chaos.
By addressing misinformation swiftly and asserting the government’s adherence to legality and restraint, Minister Khaleel reaffirmed his role as a diplomatic voice of clarity and stability amid the MDP’s politically motivated provocations.
