MDP Postpones Planned Protest After Government Denies Venue Permits

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has announced the postponement of its planned protest, originally scheduled for November 17, citing the government’s refusal to grant permission for the use of major rally venues in Malé.

According to MDP, requests were made to hold the demonstration at Artificial Beach, Alimas Carnival, and Usfasgandu  three of the capital’s most frequently used public gathering sites. However, the party said the Malé City Council and relevant state authorities denied all proposed venues, leading to the decision to delay the event.

The protest was intended to coincide with the two-year anniversary of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, as part of MDP’s ongoing campaign against what it describes as the government’s increasing centralization of power and lack of transparency in state affairs.

Party officials criticized the government for what they called a “clear attempt to suppress political expression” by denying access to traditional protest sites, arguing that such restrictions undermine the democratic freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.

The MDP has held several rallies and protests in recent months, voicing concerns over alleged misuse of state resources, irregularities in government contracting, and the administration’s growing influence over independent institutions.

The party’s leadership has reaffirmed that the postponed rally will go ahead “in the near future,” stressing that peaceful assembly remains a fundamental right that the party will continue to exercise.