MDP President Abdulla Shahid spoke virtually at the International Democracy Union Asia Pacific Forum in Wellington, New Zealand, reiterating the party's commitment to protecting democratic gains in the Maldives and warning of a global rise in authoritarianism. The article also outlines the MDP's allegations of democratic backsliding under the Muizzu administration.
One outlet so far Only Maldives Republic has reported this among the sources we monitor. A gap in what we monitor, not proof that others did not report it.
Without elections, democracy has no meaning. It continues to be the purest pathway for citizens to express their will and their opinion on the way they wish to see their country run.
Holding strong to the basic functions of democracy remains crucial.
Because democracy and freedom still remain the best option. It is the only system that protects human dignity and worth of all peoples—not just on paper, but in practice.
For every step forward, there has been several steps backwards. It has taken courage, sweat, and blood. But through the darkness, through the hardships, through the difficulties, we have persevered. And we will continue to do so.
Nothing to compare yet. If another monitored source reports it, its headline appears beside this one.
The MDP, according to Shahid, is focused on protecting the democratic gains achieved in the Maldives 16 years ago, including the enactment of a new constitution, the first multi-party elections, and a host of freedoms and rights that were previously unavailable to the people.
Word for word from the report in Maldives Republic. Open the report
Abdulla Shahid, President of the MDP, made these remarks while speaking virtually at the International Democracy Union (IDU) Asia Pacific Forum. The former foreign minister was invited to speak at the IDU forum by the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, and the Chairman of IDU, Stephen Harper, the former Prime Minister of Canada. The forum is held in Wellington, New Zealand.
Word for word from the report in Maldives Republic. Open the report
