News Desk
PNC MP Ibrahim Shujau has accused the opposition MDP of using its ongoing street protests to promote candidates contesting the party’s upcoming internal elections. He made the remarks after the MDP began nightly demonstrations in Malé calling for 12 demands from the government.
In a post on X, Shujau said the protests were not a response to any government wrongdoing. He said no one was being politically persecuted or unjustly imprisoned, and claimed the demonstrations were instead intended to create visibility for those seeking positions within the party.
“These demonstrations are to get the photos of the MDP members contesting the upcoming internal elections. They are doing it to show party members that they have made sacrifices,” he said.
Shujau said the government had been able to deliver more services to the public and that President Mohamed Muizzu was working to fulfil his pledges. He described the MDP’s actions as irresponsible and without basis.
Speaking at a rally in Rasdhoo earlier, President Muizzu also criticised the behaviour of some MDP councillors who won seats in the Malé City Council. He said the public expected good conduct from those elected to office.
“The people want to see good manners in those who come to positions elected by the people. Unfortunately, some are not seeing that,” he said. As an example, he referred to councillors who he said had been shouting obscene words and disturbing the peace during nightly demonstrations. “Every night, such people are using very rude and abusive language in the MDP demonstrations,” he said.
The MDP has been holding protests since Wednesday night, calling for 12 reforms, including allowing political rallies in different parts of Malé. Some members of former President Abdulla Yameen’s PNF have also joined the demonstrations.
