Foreigners shocked by how protests are held in Maldives: Police Commissioner

Commissioner of Police Abdullah Riyaz has said that foreigners are shocked by the extent of freedom allowed in protests in the Maldives.

Talking to reporters last night after his visit to Australia, Riyaz said that even in advanced democratic countries such as Australia, protests are not allowed if they hinder traffic or business activities.

Riyaz said that Commissioners of foreign countries were shocked when he shared details of how protests are conducted in the Maldives.

In return, they shared how protests are organised in those countries and advised that Maldivian citizens be educated on this matter.

“For example, in Australia, protests cannot be held on streets where there is traffic. People need to be informed and educated about these things. No group can obstruct business activities of another group. These are the world’s most advanced democratic societies,” he said.

He said that several important bills on Police duties have been submitted to Parliament, and that the passing of these bills will make Police work easier.

“Regardless of who carries out political activities, we will protect the rights of all groups as per existing laws. Protests should be held, but within the limits of the law. I shared information about protests in Maldives with the Commissioners, and they were shocked by the extent of freedom given to protesters here,” he said.

Commissioner Riyaz thanked Kulhudhuffushi Dhekunu MP Mohamed Nasheed for submitting the Police reform bill to the Parliament.