Opposition leader and Maldives Democracy Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail warned on Sunday that the country’s democracy is at risk of being dragged backwards, urging citizens to remain vigilant in safeguarding democratic principles.
In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, to mark International Democracy Day, Ismail highlighted the long and difficult journey that led to the current democratic framework in the Maldives. He stressed that efforts to uphold these principles must not falter, warning that the country risks losing its hard-won freedoms if vigilance wanes.
Ismail emphasised that Maldives’ democracy is in danger of returning to its former state, and more efforts must be made to maintain freedom. He cautioned that, without such efforts, the country risks falling under authoritarian rule.
Despite these concerns, Ismail expressed confidence in the people’s determination to preserve democracy, adding that there was no reason to be discouraged as citizens remain committed to defending democratic values.
Ismail, who previously served as Minister of Economic Development, is a prominent figure within the MDP and a leading voice in opposing the current administration.
Meanwhile, Abdulla Shahid, MDP President and former Foreign Minister, also raised concerns about the country’s democratic direction. In his own post on X, Shahid said it was worrying to see the Maldives moving away from democratic norms and principles.
Shahid underscored that democracy, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, human rights, and the rule of law are essential to the country’s development. He urged the Maldives to remain committed to its democratic progress and not undermine the significant achievements made in these areas.
