Former President Mohamed Nasheed stated today that he does not believe the MNDF will agree to cut off security for former presidents when they participate in protests.

The Parliament's Committee on National Security Services (241 Committee) has decided to amend the regulation on providing MNDF VIP security such that security will be suspended from the moment the police determine a protest in which former presidents are participating is an unlawful gathering.

When questioned regarding the matter at a press conference held at the MDP office today, Nasheed stated that terrorist attacks target political gatherings very easily. Therefore, he said that if the protection provided by the security forces to such gatherings is removed, it would be a major detriment to the safety and security of the entire Maldives.

"That is not something that should be done at all. From what I see, that is not something the MNDF will agree to," Nasheed said.

According to Nasheed, if a group launches an attack targeting a gathering, the public will suffer the most damage. Therefore, Nasheed stated that suspending security is not right.

"This is not something that is good to do at all. The MNDF personnel must be there. They must look into it, I have no doubt about that, they will have to do that. Furthermore, I believe that the MNDF will fulfill their legal responsibilities," Nasheed said.

Nasheed stated that even if security is cut off, he will still go to protests. He also added that even if such threats are made, he will not refrain from taking to the streets.

"Then we will seek safety to the extent that it can be found," Nasheed said.

While the decision was made not to provide security to former presidents during unlawful protests, the three former presidents—Mohamed Nasheed, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (Ibu), and Abdulla Yameen—have decided to work together against the government. Following a meeting of the three presidents, disagreements arose between the police and the security personnel when the three presidents took to the streets together.

An official who spoke to "Mihaaru" regarding the change brought to the security regulation stated that the decision had to be made because when some former presidents participate in unlawful gatherings, situations arise where the security personnel are also forced to carry out unlawful acts while those actions are taking place.

Therefore, he stated that due to such matters, discontent also exists between the police and MNDF security officials.