HRCM urges political parties to respect limits on expression and refrain from statements that may provoke unrest

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has expressed concern that political parties are encouraging unrest during night‑time rallies in Male' City.

Two opposition parties, the PNF and the MDP, are currently holding a series of rallies in the capital. Several arrests were also made at an MDP rally on Saturday night.

In a statement, the HRCM said some political parties, during their nightly rallies, are making statements that go against general social norms and are being circulated in the media in ways that create hatred among the public.

The Commission said freedom of thought and freedom to express one’s views through speech, writing and other means, without contradicting Islamic principles, is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution.

However, it noted that although freedom of expression is broad, it must be exercised within limits and without infringing on the rights of others.

The HRCM urged political parties not to instigate hatred or disrupt social peace through their rallies, media statements or social media activity. It said expressions that encourage violence are contrary to the spirit of the constitutional right to freedom of expression.

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— HRC of the Maldives (@hrcmv) April 20, 2026

The Commission said it is deeply concerned about statements that encourage such actions.

The HRCM condemned these acts and called on political parties and their leaders to refrain from them. It also urged relevant state institutions to take strong action within the legal framework.

At the same time, the Commission called on the public to avoid expressing opinions or sentiments in ways that may escalate tensions during political activities. It urged all political parties to prioritise the public interest and prevent such incidents.

The Commission also called on state security forces to fully cooperate with political parties in conducting their activities in line with the prescribed rules.

The HRCM urged all political parties to conduct their activities peacefully and within the legal framework.

Under Maldivian law and international human rights standards, freedom of expression is protected but does not extend to speech that incites violence or hatred. HRCM statements often emphasise this distinction, noting that political expression is permitted, but incitement is not. The Commission has previously issued similar reminders during periods of heightened political tension.

The MDP and PNF have begun holding rallies after saying the results of the recent council elections and the invisible vote show the public has lost confidence in the government.