Member of Parliament Hassan Zareer has criticised ongoing protests by the Maldivian Democratic Party, alleging that they are aimed at undermining the country’s image and broader national direction.

Speaking during a parliamentary debate on amendments to the Employment Act proposed by Kendhoo Member of Parliament Mauroof Zakir, MP Zareer said the protests come at a time when the Maldives is facing external challenges, including a decline in tourist arrivals linked to tensions in the Middle East.

He said the Government has taken steps to address the situation and emphasised that the public should be informed based on accurate facts, adding that the current situation is not the time to place additional demands on the Administration.

MP Zareer said while it is the responsibility of the opposition to hold the Government accountable, repeated protests risk portraying the Maldives as unstable. He also accused the opposition of spreading misinformation regarding the country’s economic situation.

Opposition protests have been taking place nightly in Malé, with demonstrators calling on the Government to address a set of demands related to the recent local council elections.