Independent presidential candidate Umar Naseer has become the target of death threats.
Umar Naseer's campaign team has taken to social media to share the concerns, revealing that Umar has been subjected to death threats in the past. Some members of his campaign team have also found themselves facing similar threats.
Notably recognised as one of the most outspoken anti-drug candidates in the upcoming presidential election, Umar has vowed to create safer streets by combating gang violence and completely eliminating drug-related issues from the nation under his government. His unwavering stance has subjected him to adversity, notably an incident where he was assaulted during a campaign event. As such, he was struck in the face by a metal object hurled from the crowd. The attacker fled the scene following the assault.
The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has stated the legal requirement for all candidates and their running mates to receive security and safety from the date of the public announcement of the names of the candidates until the presidential election is held. It is an offense to compromise the safety and security of any presidential candidate and running mate. Therefore, ECM has urged all parties involved to refrain from engaging in violent acts and to respect the safety of all candidates.