The main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has stated that the current era of democracy in the Maldives has granted unparalleled freedom to all sectors, marking a distinct period in the nation's history. The remark was made by Mariya Ahmed Didi, the spokesperson for the party's candidate, during a press conference held in Male' City.
Speaking at the press conference, Mariya said the previous government was the most terrible and unsettled government in the life of the democracy in the Maldives. She accused former President Abdulla Yameen of the imprisonment of political leaders who were contesting the last presidential election. She, however, said the difference now is that everyone has the opportunity to contest the presidential election and campaign freely.
Speaking at the press conference, Mariya conveyed that the prior administration marked the most chaotic period in the democratic history of the Maldives. She attributed this characterisation to former president Abdulla Yameen, for endorsing the imprisonment of all political leaders who participated in the preceding presidential election. She, however, highlighted that a notable contrast under the current administration is the opportunity for individuals to participate in the presidential election and conduct unrestricted campaign activities.
Additionally, Mariya said that during the previous government, institutions, journalists, and judges were reluctant to voice criticism against the authorities. She highlighted the distressing fact that numerous journalists were imprisoned, newspapers faced closures, and substantial fines were imposed on media outlets and publications.