No one has the right to defame others: President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that freedoms and responsibilities have boundaries, emphasizing that defamation is not a right afforded to anyone. 

Speaking at the National Day ceremony held in HA. Utheemu this morning, the President said that all Maldivians should reflect about the nation today as the country commemorates Mohamed Thakurufaanu's sacrifices in freeing Maldives from Portuguese occupation. 

He emphasized the importance of civic responsibility, urging citizens to ensure the Maldives is passed down to future generations with its independence and peace intact. 

He stated that nationalism and unity are key characteristics celebrated on National Day, adding that these need to be upheld for the country's future development as well. Regardless of development projects completed by governments, true development comes through citizens fulfilling their civic responsibilities, the President said. 

In contrast to this, today's reality is people disparaging and defaming others for their own advancement, the President said. He urged the people to bear in mind that rights come with responsibilities, and to ensure that boundaries are not crossed, and mutual respect is upheld. 

"None of us have the right to defame another or infringe upon their honour or dignity. It is not a freedom afforded to any of us to say whatever comes to mind about another," the President said. 

"It is not freedom for a person to utter or write whatever comes to mind."

"We had very good habits instilled amongst us. There were many things in this country that made us proud to be Maldivian. Parents were respected. Neighbours were cared about. The elderly were treated with care and kindness. Children were protected and cared about," the President reflected. 

The President said that these values need to be renewed in the country.