The Maldives Police Service has issued an appeal to the organisers of rallies and demonstrations, urging them to ensure their activities do not infringe upon the fundamental rights of other citizens. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to impartially safeguarding the freedom of peaceful assembly, a right explicitly guaranteed within the legal framework of Article 32 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives, alongside the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act and its subsequent first amendment.
This directive follows a surge in public grievances regarding recent demonstrations on the streets of Malé, which law enforcement officials noted have caused significant road closures and severe impediments for public transportation, pedestrians, motorists, and commercial enterprises. Under the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act, those who organise rallies are obligated to maintain a profound respect for public safety, the integrity of the transportation infrastructure, and the inherent rights of their fellow citizens, the police stated.
Consequently, authorities cautioned that constitutional privileges must be balanced against the rights of others. Pursuant to Article 24(f) of the act, any gathering or march within the capital requires prior written authorisation from the police, unless conducted strictly within specific zones designated by the Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology.
Demonstrations outside these zones that disrupt the public will not be tolerated, the police made unequivocally clear. Officials declared they will dismantle assemblies held in violation of the law, pursue strict legal action against organisers, and implement interventions required to protect the broader public interest. While peaceful assembly remains a fundamental liberty enshrined in Article 32 of the Constitution, it is imperative that activities are executed within a tranquil environment that fully honours the safety of the public and the freedoms of all individuals, the police underscored.
The police force remains committed to facilitating lawful civic engagement, pledging necessary safety provisions for activities that strictly adhere to the law. In its statement, the service offered a firm assurance that it is fully prepared to guarantee comprehensive security arrangements, including the active management and policing of roadways in designated areas where lawful assemblies and marches are taking place.