Teargas followed by

Protests are ongoing in capital Male’, with last night’s demonstrations being conducted in the true spirit of protests.

More people had gathered than preceding nights, including an opposition group against the protesters. Preparations were better than usual with speakers placed at PPM and DRP offices.

Protesters continuously called for the release of the Chief Judge of Criminal Court Abdulla Mohamed and for the resignation of President Nasheed. Leaders of opposition groups gave speeches in encouragement of the protest.

Groups belonging to MDP were located at the South side of the stage, and were observed to use their loudspeakers to pester every opposition group leader who tried to give a speech.

Opposition groups were relaxed, remained on the Dinemore side of the stage and raised their voices. Several of them were seen dancing as well.

When it came to demonstrators’ attention that a foreign TV channel was covering the protest, several opposing protesters began speaking English. MDP members were heard to say that President Gayoom should be arrested in an interview with the foreign reporters.

At the beginning of the protest MDP members were using a megaphone, which did not win over the opposition groups’ loudspeakers. Later they brought in their loudspeakers, following which the sounds of both groups were of the same volume, making it impossible to make out what either group was saying.

One group attempted to stir up confrontations with the opposition groups. However as the opposition groups were rather relaxed, the Police effortlessly arrested those who tried to create unrest.

Even when it was as late as midnight, the only advice given by Police was that people should not remain on the streets. VTV and DhiTV had set up their equipment inside DRP office to broadcast the protest live, and the Police did attempt to remove them on two occasions. However they were stopped by officials who stated that a court order is necessary if the Police wish to enter their office.

Even though they did not succeed in stopping the live broadcast, DhiTV cable was cut off at one stage.

After midnight, Police warned the two groups to leave the area. They did not allow much time for the crowds to respond to their request, but used teargas almost immediately. MDP groups were seen to flee the scene immediately while opposition groups took their time in heading home.

As people appeared out of the smoke, announcements were made indicating an end to last night’s protest.

As protesters thanked the Police for their cooperation, the Police were heard to thank them back. Thus ended last night’s demonstrations in Male’.