EC threatens action as PNF repeats activities deemed outside Political Parties Act

The Election Commission (EC) has warned that it will take action against former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s People’s National Front (PNF) for violating laws governing political activities.

The PNF has been holding protests in Male' over the government’s defeat in the April 4 council elections and the referendum on holding the two main elections together. During the rallies, the party also criticised the government while referring to a documentary that made allegations against President and ruling PNC President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The EC had earlier sent letters to both the PNF and the opposition MDP urging them not to engage in activities that create hatred or encourage unrest. The commission also instructed demonstrators to comply with the Political Parties Act.

The EC further directed party leaders, members and activists not to criticise the private lives of political leaders or make unsubstantiated statements that could incite anger or hatred, noting that such actions violate the Code of Conduct.

In a statement issued Monday, the EC said holding public meetings and political activities in streets and public squares outside the scope of the Political Parties Act is against the code of conduct. It said all political parties must conduct activities within the limits set by the Peaceful Assembly Act.

https://t.co/E5PZu3Q12C pic.twitter.com/T1ygg6s2gn

— Elections Commission (@ElectionsMv) May 4, 2026

The commission also noted that members or supporters of one party disrupting another party’s meeting, or attempting to hold a meeting at the same time and place, is prohibited under the code of conduct.

The EC said it had received information that the PNF was repeatedly engaging in unlawful acts during its rallies. The party has been advised not to continue such actions. The commission added that the PNF has refused to appear before it to discuss the issues.

“Therefore, if the above acts are repeated, the Commission will take the necessary action under the Political Parties Act,” the EC said.

The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has asked Channel 13 not to broadcast the PNF protests live. Earlier, the Human Rights Commission (HRC) expressed concern that political parties were encouraging unrest during night‑time rallies in Male'.

The EC’s warning comes amid controversy over a documentary published by Adhadhu making allegations against the President. Police searched the outlet’s office, seized the passports of its owners and barred them from leaving the country. On Monday, at the request of police, the Criminal Court granted access to the electronic devices seized from the office, though the outlet has decided not to provide the passwords.