Yesterday around 250 members of the Youth Alliance marched down Male’s Majeedee Magu hoping, somewhat ambitiously, to promote a non-partisan message of peace and unity. Dressed all in white, the group made it’s way down Male’s busiest street accompanied by white balloons, drums, and smiles.
The group included supporters from both the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the Dhivehi Rayithunge Party (DRP), and the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM).
The start of the march was held up after some supporters of the MDP allegedly attempted to block the Alliance’s path, resulting in a slight delay near the intersection with Chandhanee Magu, shortly after the group had departed from the Social Centre on its way to the Carnival grounds.
At this stage, some marchers decided to abandon the protest, fearing that the event might become a politicised one. Although the group had requested that the event remain politically neutral, some ‘where’s my vote?’ placards could be spotted.
It is also alleged that some PPM supporters attempted to organise a separate gathering to draw support away from the Youth Alliance march.
Disgruntled motorists sounded their horns behind the group as it edged its way along the route. Amidst the crescendo of beeps, one motorbike, riding just behind the group in white, escorted another potential saboteur who chanted “Baaghee Waheed” over a loudspeaker.
One of the group’s organisers, Aishath Hana, was keen to stress that the group did not receive any funding from politicians for their efforts, despite rumours to the contrary.
“We organised this walk for our nation and we even spent our own money to organise this event” said Hana.
Those tailing the group, loudspeaker and all, turned south Boduthakurufaanu Magu while the Youth Alliance turned north towards the Carnival grounds.
Upon reaching their destination, the group gathered in formation to make a peace symbol before singing and dancing to the bodu beru. Hana was happy with the day despite the interruptions, “It was a success…We want to thank everyone who joined in our walk.”
“We had to overcome many obstacles but we made it.”
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