Opposition coalition launch “continual protest”

The main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), People’s Alliance (PA), Jumhoory Party (Republican Party) and Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP) began a series of “continual protests” on Friday night against the detention of Mulaku MP Abdulla Yameen by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

DRP MPs as well as senior officials of the minor parties addressed a large crowd of supporters outside the DRP office near the artificial beach area, calling for the resignation of President Mohamed Nasheed and accusing the government of targeting political opponents.

While participants held “Free Yamin” placards, the opposition politicians vowed to continue the protests until the PA Leader was released.

Gemanafushi MP Ilham Ahmed, deputy leader of the DRP, told reporters at a press conference to announce the protests that the party considered public demonstrations a measure of last resort.

Ilham warned that Monday’s sitting of the People’s Majlis could not take place in the absence of the MP for Mulaku.

Galolhu South MP Ahmed Mahlouf meanwhile criticised police for their handling of violent protests outside PA MP Ahmed Nazim’s residence, which caused damage to private property.

A short distance from the DRP office, the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has been conducting its “continual protests” behind the Dharubaaruge convention centre as part of its “People’s Court” that was opened on Thursday.

Meanwhile, local media reports that crowds demanding the arrest of Chief Judge of the Criminal Court Abdullah Mohamed were dispersed by police outside his residence last night.

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