Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon has stated that the Maldives continues to maintain a free and democratic environment under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

He made the remarks while speaking to MMTV during a door-to-door campaign conducted by the ruling People's National Congress in West Henveiru. President Dr Muizzu also took part in the campaign activity.

Ghassan said that upon assuming office, President Dr Muizzu pledged that the Government would refrain from influencing the courts or intervening in matters within the judicial system. He noted that this assurance was first given in the President’s initial address to the public after taking the oath of office.

He stated that since then, there has been no indication of Government interference in the judiciary or involvement in ongoing legal proceedings.

“There is no case where an individual has been politically targeted or detained by the Government. The Government does not interfere in any matters before the courts,” Ghassan said.

The Minister added that the current political climate reflects democratic principles, with opposition parties able to operate and conduct political activities without obstruction.

President Dr Muizzu has previously stated that his Administration would end the practice of using State institutions as instruments against political rivals and ensure that legal mechanisms are not used for political purposes.

Ghassan further emphasised that no retaliatory measures have been taken against any opposition political leader, and that leaders of opposition parties continue to carry out their activities freely within the democratic framework.