Baarah MP Ibrahim Shujau has criticized former President Abdulla Yameen over protests organized by his party, describing them as the work of a “cowardly” individual.

Speaking in Parliament today, MP Shujau said the demonstrations organized by People’s National Front (PNF) had drawn public complaints.

“It is a shame that some private media outlets are also broadcasting stories that are against general social standards,” he said.

Without initially naming Yameen or his party, Shujau referred to nightly protests held in Henveiru, alleging that they involved only a small number of participants but were broadcast live on Channel 13.

He said residents in nearby homes had complained about the use of profanity during the demonstrations.

“Such things are happening every night. This demonstration was planned by a very cowardly person. He is sitting at home and instructing people what to do,” Shujau said. “I am talking about President Yameen.”

Shujau accused Yameen of encouraging protests that disrupt public order, adding that complaints from the public had been received by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC).

“We have heard many different alleged stories about those who have ruled the Maldives,” he added, in reference to rumors about Yameen during his rule.

Shujau was previously a close ally of Yameen during his administration. However, relations between the two have deteriorated following the election of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu under the PNC ticket, with Yameen going on to form a separate political party.