Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has announced that they will be holding a major May Day rally calling to protect the rights of workers, and all Maldivians.

International Workers' Day or Labour Day is marked on May 1 annually.

In a press conference held today, former MP for Alifushi Mohamed Rasheed Hussain (Bigey) said that the May Day rally will be held at 8.30pm on May 1 at the Artificial Beach.

He stated that many will raise their voices at this gathering calling for protection of rights, and a large number of workers will also participate.

Hussain went on to note that the rights of many, even besides workers, have been infringed upon. There is currently no one in the Maldives who is not forced to face an individual level of despair, he said, highlighting difficulties in getting basic necessities such as electricity services, medicine and health services in various parts of the country.

"There is no freedom of employment of freedom of staying employed, if it is someone with even a slight difference in opinion. Political posts are also being handed out limitlessly, to a point where the economy is unable to bear the burden," he said.

The party also called on citizens to come out in protest of infringement on rights of workers, highlighting that the party, from day one, has been a strong advocate for worker rights.