The Government of the Republic of Maldives reaffirms its commitment to upholding democratic rights, including the right to freedom of peaceful assembly as guaranteed under Article 32 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives and the Freedom of Assembly Act (Act no. 1/2013).
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, 1 October 2025, Maldives Police Service reiterated that all protests and rallies, must be conducted in accordance with the Freedom of Assembly Act, and must be confined to the designated routes as approved by the Maldives Police Service . Relevant authorities urged all participants to cooperate with authorities working to ensure public safety, to respect the rights of all citizens, and to conduct the event in a manner that upholds broader interest and well-being of the community.
Despite this, and the subsequent reminders by the Police, participants defied the designated route and forced their way into Majeedhee Magu, - the busiest street in the Capital Male’, disrupting public order, breaking police barricades and seizing police shields and obstructing police duties. The Government reiterates that the Maldives Police Service acted responsibly and with restraint in ensuring public safety, even in the face of obstruction and provocation from the protesters.
The Government of Maldives respects and fully supports the right to protest and the right to freedom of expression to be exercised peacefully in accordance with the law.
Ends.