Black oil thrown at Faresmathoda MDP candidate while on his way to debate

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)'s parliamentary election candidate Ahmed Zaeem has been thrown black oil at on Thursday.

The assault took place this afternoon while Zaeem was headed to attend the parliamentary candidates' debate, which is held at the Maldives National University (MNU).

Photos circulating on social media show Zaeem standing outside the MNU premises, his white shirt and yellow tie stained with black oil.

MDP condemned the attack, and posted on social media, describing the attack as cowardly.

The Faresmathoda constituency debate was held at 17:00 hrs today. Zaeem was able to participate in the debate after a quick change of wardrobe, despite what is believed to be efforts to prevent him from doing so.

It is so far unconfirmed who the perpetrators are, or even if the matter has been reported to police.