Chief Government Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef has said protests held outside the legal framework are harming public order, citing disruptions to daily life and wider social impacts.

Speaking on MMTV’s Bodu Khabaru programme, the Spokesperson stated that the right to assemble in Malé is regulated by laws that designate specific areas for gatherings. He noted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expanded the number of such locations.

He said that while the right to assembly and protest has been widened, activities conducted outside the established framework have led to actions that conflict with social norms. He added that inappropriate language is sometimes used during such gatherings.

The Spokesperson further stated that protests held unlawfully on the streets of Malé have disrupted traffic and affected businesses. He also said that noise associated with such activities can have adverse psychological effects on children.

He said that when authorities take action to stop such protests due to these impacts, critics may argue that the Government is infringing on the fundamental right to assembly.

The Spokesperson also alleged that some political activities are being carried out in ways that promote personal bias and hostility, warning that such approaches have previously led to serious incidents.

Referring to past events, he highlighted attacks on public figures as examples of how political tensions can escalate.

He added that one of the main factors contributing to such incidents is the spread of hatred and anger through serious allegations against individuals being amplified publicly.