A recent protest by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has sparked widespread condemnation after an activist’s remarks targeted the child of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, raising serious concerns about the violation of children’s rights.
During the ongoing series of protests last Wednesday night, senior MDP activist Mariyam Zubair, also known as Mandhy, made comments about the president’s child that were widely circulated on social media. These remarks have drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including government ministers and the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM).
HRCM emphasized that freedom of expression should not be misused to harm the dignity and reputation of children. The Elections Commission (EC) also condemned the unsubstantiated statements, stating that such actions violate children’s rights and affect their dignity and mental well-being, as outlined in the Children’s Rights Protection Act.
Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq expressed deep concern over the activist’s remarks, stating that children’s rights are fundamental and must not be violated for political gain. He emphasized that political rivalry should not involve children and that a responsible opposition should focus on policy criticism rather than personal attacks.
Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel condemned the spread of deliberate falsehoods about children for political purposes, labeling such actions as morally reprehensible. He highlighted the significant psychological harm inflicted on children and called for serious investigations under the Child Rights Protection Act.
Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Ahmed Shiyam deemed the opposition’s actions unacceptable, urging that children be kept out of political matters. Similarly, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed criticized the violation of children’s rights, stating that targeting a particular family does not equate to holding the government accountable. He also expressed shame over some opposition leaders defending the activist’s statements.
Minister of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muttalib remarked that those who compromise a child’s dignity are driven by selfish desires rather than the nation’s benefit. Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar described the act of violating innocent children’s rights as uncivilized and warned that tolerating such behavior could jeopardize the future of the Maldives.
Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen stressed that political opposition should have boundaries and that involving children creates a dangerous environment for them. Both Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed and Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Abdullah Rafiu joined in condemning the activist’s actions.
In response to photos circulating on social media related to this incident, the Ministry of Gender, Family, and Social Services expressed concern. The ministry reiterated that under the Child Rights Protection Act, it is prohibited to circulate photos of children or disclose information that reveals their identity.
The EC called on all political parties to avoid inciting anger and hatred, making personal attacks, and spreading baseless claims, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the Code of Conduct under Section 45 of the Political Party Act. The commission reaffirmed its support for lawful political activities within the established legal framework.
This incident has ignited a national conversation about the ethical boundaries of political discourse, especially concerning the protection of children’s rights in the Maldives.
