12 July 2012

The Maldives’ government has today condemned the acts of violence carried out by opposition activists conducted in the name of “direct and immediate action”.

Activists of the Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) lead by former President Nasheed have carried out a number of violent attacks and continue to harass government officials and members of law enforcement agencies.

11 July 2012 arson attack on the car of the Minister for Gender and Family follows the continued harassment of government officials. Similarly in the early hours of 12 July 2012, MDP activists torched a newly built police station in Noonu Atoll Holhudhoo. A number of journalists have been injured by activists, including a television presenter from private broadcaster DhiTV.

Speaking today, President Waheed said “the Government is working to restore peace and calm in the country, and secure the safety of the people. We will not tolerate these violent acts being carried out by the MDP. Those responsible for these cowardly acts will be brought to justice. We urge the leadership of the MDP to call an end to these violent acts being carried out by their activists and participate in resolving disagreements through the correct mechanisms.”

Source: President’s Office – Press Release Ref. No. 2012-460