We don't support suspending, disbanding organisations: MDP

The ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Saturday condemned acts carried out to tarnish the name of Islam and contradict the tenets of the religion but declared that the party will not support suspending and disbanding of any organisation.

The statement comes at a time when the public is strongly calling for the disestablishment of Maldivian Democracy Network (MDN), following the release of a controversial report which contradicts the tenets of Islam and claimed that the rhetoric of certain textbooks encouraged extremism.

According to the statement, MDP believes that freedom of speech must be used without contradicting the tenets of Islam. The party further called for measures to be taken against those who broke the law in the name of freedom of speech and those spreading and supporting extremist ideologies and fear within the community.

"Everyone should be subject to the law. No one should be given the chance to operate outside of the constitution or without following the procedures set in place", the statement read.

The party stated that spreading hatred within society should not be allowed. "Such things will not bring any peace to the country or any progress to the religion", they added.

The statement addressed that such dialogue could lead to divisions in the community and threaten the security and safety of the people.

Moreover, MDP expressed disappointment over some political figures using such situations to create unrest and spread hate among the public.

Condemning extremist ideologies and the actions of those advocating for cruelty, unrest and hatred on social media channels, rallies and various forums, MDP's statement reiterated that these acts of terror must be stopped.

The statement concluded with MDP calling for the government to conduct investigations into the acts of extremists spreading discord within society to ensure peace in the country.

The opposition heavily criticised the government's reaction over MDN's report at a rally named 'Annanee Annanee', held on Friday night.

Speaking at the gathering, former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom argued that President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih should have been the first to give a statement about the report.

According to Yameen, giving a half-hearted statement after the heat died out was proof that the issue was not of much importance to President Solih.