Mariya calls for responsible campaigning without property damage

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s campaign spokesperson and Minister of Defense, Mariya Didi, has called upon the political opposition to conduct a responsible presidential campaign without causing any harm to the campaign hubs of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

After two MDP campaign venues in Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Madaveli and Hoadehdhoo were vandalized, Mariya held a press conference to address the attacks. During the conference, she emphasized that political campaigning is an integral element of the democratic process, and every candidate has the right to freely campaign for public support.

Mariya urged all parties involved to uphold democratic standards during this year's presidential election, which is the most competitive by far in the Maldives, featuring the largest pool of candidates since the 2008 election.

"The people have a right to know what the candidates are promising to deliver, to understand the plans the candidates have for the next five years, and they should be able to listen to the candidates without any fear or intimidation. Therefore, I urge the opposition not to destroy or damage campaign hubs," Mariya said.

"Our campaign hub at Hoadehdhoo was vandalized, and another was set on fire. There were attempts by the opposition to breach the security cordon before the President's arrival," she added.

Mariya emphasized that voting is not merely a political act, but a public engagement for national progress. She emphasized the importance of citizens participating in the elections and warned that security forces would be employed to counter any attempts to obstruct the public's involvement in the election process.

“I recommend everyone to uphold the democratic process, and allow other candidates to express themselves,” Mariya said.

She claimed MDP did not resort to such tactics during the 2018 presidential election when they were the opposition party.

"MDP never resorted to such tactics back when it was the opposition party, and even today, our party will not interfere with opposition candidates," Mariya said.

The minister said that candidates would have the option to seek protection and assistance from security forces if their campaign activities are disrupted.