MDP asserts 'Dhathivejje' is a protest to voice public concerns, not an evening parade

The main opposition party, MDP, says Thursday night’s “Dhathivejje” phrased to mean ‘distressed economically’, gathering is not a relaxed anniversary evening parade, but a demonstration to voice public concerns to the government over the worsening situation in the country.

The protest is scheduled to begin at 8:30 pm on Thursday in front of the Social Centre in Male' City.

After meeting with the police, the MDP told the media that it intends to conduct the protest directly on Majeedhee Magu. The party said it will not hold the demonstration anywhere else this time, noting that previous attempts had been hindered. Although no official response has been issued by the police, the MDP said it has received a hopeful signal.

Anwar Ibrahim, who is overseeing MDP’s activities, said the party is not organising an evening parade but a demonstration.

“We are not going to hold an annual parade. We are not going on an evening walk, we are going to hold a demonstration. We will make our voices heard,” Anwar said.

He added that protesters would only hear their own voices if the event is held on the ring road, and not the public. He said Majeedhee Magu was chosen to ensure their voices reach as many people as possible.

The protest was originally scheduled for Wednesday night but was later postponed to Thursday night.

The party did not disclose the reason for the postponement. After a mild hiatus in political activity, the MDP has returned in full force and has urged as many people as possible to join the protest.