Former Home Minister calls for constitutional adherence at Lootuvaifi rally

Former Home Minister Sheikh Imran Abdullah stated on Friday evening that President Muizzu must step back, asserting that the "Green Constitution has been plundered."

Speaking at the beginning of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s "Lootuvaifi" rally held at Artificial Beach, Male' city, Imran emphasized that President Muizzu must govern within the framework of the Constitution.

"This is a warm-up. We will push President Muizzu back. President Muizzu should rule within the law," Imran declared.

Clashes subsequently broke out between protesters and police. Imran, who also serves as the president of the Adhaalath Party, called upon the police to uphold the rights of the people and the Constitution.

He further stated that Special Operations (SO) police officers are authorized to wear uniforms only with permission from President Muizzu, and that he would not return home unless President Muizzu adheres to the constitution.

Imran warned that this is merely the beginning, and that all Maldivian citizens will eventually join the protests.

It is noteworthy that SO police intercepted the protesters as they attempted to move from Artificial Beach towards Majeedhee Magu. Police deployed pepper spray as confrontations escalated between the two groups.

The MDP protesters were halted when they attempted to take a route other than the one sanctioned by the police. Authorities have consistently labeled the rally as "illegal" and repeatedly warned protesters to disperse.