Opposition protests disrupt Maldivian president's speech in parliament

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

On Thursday, while President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives was delivering his presidential address in the People's Majlis, the unicameral legislative body located in Malé, opposition members from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) rose their voices in protest.

The Speaker of the People's Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdulla gave multiple warnings, but opposition parliament members refused to heed them. Abdulla called out the names of the protesters and asked them to leave the chambers. Security escorted out those who refused to leave voluntarily.

Protests also occurred outside the building of the People's Majlis, with participants including former cabinet ministers and lawmakers.

The MDP's parliamentary group leader, Ibrahim Nazil, stated that the Speaker's decision to eject the protesting MPs from the session contradicted parliamentary regulations.

In his speech, Muizzu emphasized protecting the independence of the Maldives and supporting statehood for the Palestinian people. He also announced plans to submit a list of bills to parliament, highlighting a bill to hold presidential and parliamentary elections simultaneously, which he considered the most important.

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Sources

Mariyath Mohamed. "Parliament adjourns with MDP MPs obstructing Presidential Address" — The Edition, February 6, 2025
"Majlis adjourned as MDP protest halts President Muizzu's presidential address" — Adhadhu, February 6, 2025
"Presidential Address Concluded, After Halting Due to Protest by Opposition MPs" — MV+, February 6, 2025
Zunana Zalif. "Majlis inaugural sitting: nine opposition MPs kicked out of chamber" — Raajje TV, February 6, 2025
Mariyath Mohamed. "Members were removed from parliament sitting against regulations: Minority leader" — The Edition, February 6, 2025
Zunana Zalif. "MDP protests near Majlis building, calls for Muizzu's immediate resignation" — Raajje TV, February 6, 2025
"MDP lawmakers disrupt President’s annual address" — Sun, February 6, 2025
Mariyath Mohamed. "Will not allow anything to compromise independence: President" — The Edition, February 6, 2025
Malika Shahid. "Gaza is the legitimate right of the Palestinian people: President" — The Edition, February 6, 2025
Malika Shahid. "Major bills to be introduced in Parliament, including simultaneous Presidential and Parliament elections" — The Edition, February 6, 2025

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