Government Spokesperson Heena Waleed has rejected allegations made by MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, who claimed the government was obstructing a ceremony to mark the party's anniversary and the return of former President Mohamed Nasheed and some members of The Democrats.
In a social media post on Thursday, Fayyaz said that no venue was being granted for the celebrations, forcing the event to be held near Muliaage, the official residence of the President of the Maldives.
Responding on X (formerly Twitter), Heena said the government is not restricting political space and that the claims are misleading the public. She stated that the government is committed to upholding democracy and allowing responsible political activity.
Heena noted that while previous administrations restricted political gatherings to the Carnival area with prior permission, the current government has expanded public political space. Areas now designated for gatherings without prior approval include Carnival, the southwest Malé industrial zone, Usfasgandu, and Rasfannu.
She urged political leaders not to misrepresent facts, stressing that transparency and access to political engagement are vital foundations of a democratic society.
In a social media post on Thursday, Fayyaz said that no venue was being granted for the celebrations, forcing the event to be held near Muliaage, the official residence of the President of the Maldives.
Responding on X (formerly Twitter), Heena said the government is not restricting political space and that the claims are misleading the public. She stated that the government is committed to upholding democracy and allowing responsible political activity.
Heena noted that while previous administrations restricted political gatherings to the Carnival area with prior permission, the current government has expanded public political space. Areas now designated for gatherings without prior approval include Carnival, the southwest Malé industrial zone, Usfasgandu, and Rasfannu.
She urged political leaders not to misrepresent facts, stressing that transparency and access to political engagement are vital foundations of a democratic society.
