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MDP activist summoned by police over alleged intimidating post

Shafiu is summoned to the police for question tomorrow at 13:30 hrs.

Malika Shahid
30 November 2024, MVT 21:07
MDP social media activist Hussain Shafiu (thuthu) -- Photo: Social Media
Malika Shahid
30 November 2024, MVT 21:07

A Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) social media activist, Hussain Shafiu (Thuthu), has been summoned to police station over a social media post deemed threatening.

Shafiu is summoned to the police for question tomorrow at 13:30 hrs.

The post, made on November 8, under the handle "charly_thuthu" expressed dissatisfaction with the increased cigarette prices, using profanity and ending with the statement, "Don't let me see you on the street."

In response to the summons, MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail criticized the government on social media platform X, alleging it is suppressing public dissent and silencing voices of opposition.

He asserted that MDP members would continue to speak out despite such measures.

Minister of Homeland, Security, and Technology Ali Ihusan replied to Fayyaz’s remarks, and said that the phrase "dont let me see you on the street" in Shafiu’s post could be interpreted as a threat of physical harm, warranting investigation.

"If tomorrow someone attributes or implies such a phrase to you, should we ignore it as an expression of opinion?," he said.

"And if you are seen on the street and assaulted, should we ignore it as further clarification of the opinion expressed? Is this how things will be in this country under your leadership?," the minister said in his post.

He said that it is the government’s duty to safeguard individuals and urged Fayyaz to separate such cases from political narratives.

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