Chapter prohibiting propagation of discord added to MNDF

A chapter prohibiting the propagation of discord within the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has been added to the institution’s general regulation.

MNDF spokesperson Colonel Abdul Raheem said that the chapter was added last week and that amendments to the institution’s general regulation was common practice.

“It is common. We have internally communicated the changes. We communicate every change to the regulation internally to the soldiers,” Colonel Abdul Raheem said.

A document presumed to be the notice of amendment circulating in social media networks state that the new amendment, defining and prohibiting discord, was to take effect last Wednesday.

The new chapter, known as Chapter 33, states that it is prohibited for two or more individuals; to submit petitions and make demands, to make a statement or support verbally, or in writing, or through drawings or pictures or through any other means, which might affect the cohesion of the Force.

The amendment to MNDF’s general regulation comes at a time when rumors of discord amongst the institution have become strong, following the Supreme Court’s decision to postpone the second round of the presidential election.

On Monday, four senior MNDF officers presented a document to the Chief of Defence Force Major General Ahmed Shiyam, highlighting concerns surrounding the country’s current situation following the postponement of the elections. MNDF spokesperson Colonel Abdul Raheem, also one of the signatories of the document, said that the document was signed by one General and three Colonels.

Three officers have been suspended recently over allegations of encouraging discord within the institution. However, MNDF stated that the officer were not suspended under the newly added Chapter 33 of the general regulation.