The MDP Parliamentary Group has condemned what it described as the use of excessive force by police to disperse a protest by fishermen.
In a statement signed by 11 MDP members of parliament, the party said police boarded fishing vessels during the protest, seized two boats, and detained several individuals, including Kendhoo Constituency MP Mauroof Zakir.
The MDP said the protest, which began on Wednesday, was a peaceful demonstration by fishermen seeking their rights amid delays in payments for their catch and increasing challenges faced by the fishing industry. The party accused the government of failing to fulfil its promises to fishermen and fishing communities.
Citing Article 31 of the Constitution, the MDP said workers have the right to protest and strike, and alleged that the arrests were carried out unlawfully while protesters were exercising their constitutional rights. The statement strongly condemned the arrest of MP Mauroof Zakir and called for his immediate release.
The MDP also urged the government to refrain from interfering with the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens and to urgently address the concerns raised by fishermen.
In a statement signed by 11 MDP members of parliament, the party said police boarded fishing vessels during the protest, seized two boats, and detained several individuals, including Kendhoo Constituency MP Mauroof Zakir.
The MDP said the protest, which began on Wednesday, was a peaceful demonstration by fishermen seeking their rights amid delays in payments for their catch and increasing challenges faced by the fishing industry. The party accused the government of failing to fulfil its promises to fishermen and fishing communities.
Citing Article 31 of the Constitution, the MDP said workers have the right to protest and strike, and alleged that the arrests were carried out unlawfully while protesters were exercising their constitutional rights. The statement strongly condemned the arrest of MP Mauroof Zakir and called for his immediate release.
The MDP also urged the government to refrain from interfering with the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens and to urgently address the concerns raised by fishermen.
