Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and former President Mohamed Nasheed stated last night that the "Vazeefaa Buraasfathi" protest being held by MDP tonight is not a protest about overthrowing the government, it is a peaceful march to raise their voice against the government.
On Sangu TV's "Habarah Fahu" program, Nasheed said that the government and the police should know that the protest being organized by MDP is a peaceful one.
Nasheed urged not to view the protest as something being done to cause unrest and requested assistance from the police to monitor traffic when the protest is underway.
"I strongly request the police not to view this as a riot assembly in any way. What I would like them to do is to assist us in properly arranging this march," said Nasheed.
Nasheed also urged supporters to refrain from engaging in any unruly conduct in connection with the protest and to avoid actions that could cause unrest.
He said previous marches had generated public dissatisfaction, which he said was clearly evident. However, Nasheed maintained that marches organised by the MDP had instead brought smiles to people's faces.
When asked how they would respond if the government does not allow tonight's assembly to take place, Nasheed answered by saying that he does not believe they would not be given the opportunity to do so. He stated that it is a civil right guaranteed by the Constitution and that even though there are any issues within the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act, it does not prohibit assembly.
MDP's protest is set to take place from Rasfannu, through Majeedhee Magu towards Artificial Beach. Nasheed requested the traffic police to aid them in their protest instead of the police coming out with shields and pepper spray.
"I call on the police and state that we are not doing this to overthrow the government. This is a peaceful march, a protest, a call to raise voices. A right given to us by the Constitution," said Nasheed on the program.
"We will begin at Rasfannu, march through Majeedhee Magu and end the protest at Artificial Beach. This is not something the government should care about at all. It is not something the riot police should come armed with shields and tear gas."
