Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) social media activist Hussain Shafiu has been summoned by police over a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, in which he expressed frustration about rising cigarette prices and criticised President Mohamed Muizzu.
The post, dated 8 November, said he had purchased a box of cigarettes for MVR 270, adding a remark widely interpreted as directed at President Muizzu, whom opposition supporters have nicknamed “Kazzab” – an Arabic term for someone who lies or misleads. The nickname has gained traction among critics, who accuse Muizzu of failing to fulfil his campaign promises.
The police summons issued to Shafiu stated he was being investigated for “using foul language” and posting content that allegedly “spreads fear among the public.” He has been ordered to appear at a police station for questioning at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, 1 December.
Following the summons, MDP social media activists began reposting Shafiu’s original tweet in solidarity. Responding to the summons, Shafiu tweeted, “You can’t intimidate me. I grew up in a rough ocean too.”
Opposition leader and MDP chairperson Fayyaz Ismail condemned the summons, accusing the government of attempting to silence dissent. “Expressing dissatisfaction against the government has become a serious crime today,” Fayyaz wrote on X. “Dictators will always silence the people and prevent them from expressing their views. Ideas and thoughts cannot be locked. Despite this summons, the people and especially the MDP members will have the courage to speak out.”
During the Ibrahim Mohamed Solih administration, the MDP claims no investigations were launched against individuals over their social media posts, in contrast to the current government’s approach.
The development has sparked a heated online debate about freedom of speech and the government’s response to criticism. The Muizzu administration has not commented on the matter.
