MDP condemns Dr. Shazra and Shadhiya's arrest

Former ruling party and current opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has condemned the government's decision to arrest Dr. Shazra Ibrahim and Aishath Shadhiya, two women who have persistently protested against Israel's atrocities in Maldives' capital Malé City.

According to the police, they were arrested for repeatedly gathering near diplomatic embassies, using loudspeakers to create noise, shout and using foul language. They're also accused of acting in a way that caused disturbance to embassies and ambassadors.

When presented to court, the Criminal Court ordered them to be remanded in custody for three days.

In a statement issued yesterday, MDP said that while the constitution guarantees freedom of expression in a manner that does not violate the principles of Islam, Shadhiya and Shazra were exercising that right for the sake of the people of Palestine.

"...the prevention of the expression is not permissible under that provision [Article 27 of the Constitution],” the statement said.

MDP also criticised the government and claimed that there was no sincerity in anything the government has done for the sake of the Palestinian people. The party also said that the government is hesitating to implement the actions they announced in support of Palestine.

"...[T]he sympathy in the hearts of every Maldivian citizen is a common sentiment of the Maldivian people. It is unacceptable for some Maldivians to be arrested for an act permitted by the law," the MDP said.

The statement also called for the release of Shadhiya and Shazra.

While Shadhiya and Shazra are key figures in the local protests against Israel's atrocities in Palestine, they also continue to call for the boycott of Israeli products in the country.

Prior to their arrest, police summoned Shazra and questioned her regarding the matter as well.

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