Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail have criticised the government over recent actions against critics, calling them a threat to the country’s democratic principles.
Their remarks follow police summons issued to MDP social media activist Hussain Shafiu over a post about rising cigarette prices and an investigation into Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Gadhdhoo Island Council President Mohamed Ahmed for comments allegedly damaging to the reputation of President Mohamed Muizzu and senior government officials.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Solih described the actions as a “step backwards in the hard-earned freedom of expression and democracy,” adding, “It is worrying that the government is trying to revive the terrible past of making criticism of the government a crime.”
Fayyaz echoed Solih’s concerns, accusing the government of attempting to silence dissent. “Expressing dissatisfaction against the government has become a serious crime today,” he wrote on X. “Dictators will always silence the people and prevent them from expressing their views. Despite this summons, the people and especially MDP members will have the courage to speak out.”
Freedom of Speech Under Scrutiny
Shafiu’s summons relates to a post on X in which he criticised the rising price of cigarettes, mentioning that a box now costs MVR 270. The post included a remark that opposition supporters interpret as a critique of President Muizzu’s leadership. Police allege Shafiu used “foul language” and spread fear, summoning him to appear for questioning on Sunday.
The post contained a remark widely interpreted as a critique of President Muizzu’s leadership. Police allege that Shafiu used ‘foul language’ and incited fear, leading to his summons for questioning on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Local Government Authority (LGA) has ordered an investigation into Council President Mohamed Ahmed for remarks it claims were damaging to President Muizzu and senior officials.
The actions have sparked a broader debate about the government’s response to criticism, with opposition activists reposting Shafiu’s remarks in solidarity.
Shafiu, in defiance of the summons, tweeted, “You can’t intimidate me. I grew up in a rough ocean too.”
The Muizzu administration has yet to comment on the controversy, which continues to fuel concerns about freedom of speech and the overall state of democracy in the country.
