:: Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

Gayyoom Party (GP) Taking Us for a Ride, Yet Again

Editorial 29^th May 2004

A.S.I.Moosa (Sappe')

Dhivehi Observer
Editor-in-chief

In recent months, the political arena in Maldives has changed dramatically with ever growing numbers of people criticising the government for its shortfalls in establishing a pluralistic democracy in the Maldives. It is quite important to note that although political parties are not allowed, the government acts like one. Public figures such as Atolls Minister Hameed and Yaameen openly advocate and campaign for candidates and even label them as “Government Candidates”.

On 27^thMay, the day before elections, DO carried out and internet, email and fax campaign to inform the public to vote with a clear conscience and not to fall for the trap of this Government. The message in it was not to vote for the so called “Government Candidates” and stressing the importance of separating the powers of the states; The Legislature, The Judiciary and The Executive. Mr. Gayyoom will most likely interpret this peaceful campaign by DO as sedition; incitement or rebellion that disturbs public harmony. Nevertheless, the fact remains that the constitution of the Maldives gives us that right. Fortunately, we are based outside Gayyoom’s jurisdiction and there is nothing he could do to apprehend the contributors and editors of DO. He cannot lock us up.

Dhivehi Observer calls on Gayyoom to listen to the voice of the people and to respect our right to freedom of expression and association.

Without a freedom of expression and association, the consequences of your actions will haunt our nation for a long time.

Once again, Gayyoom is taking the Maldivians for a ride asking them to participate in the political agenda to reform by announcing its willingness to consult the people on the constitutional reform process which is due to get underway. How can anyone believe him when he continues to treat all who oppose him or are critical to his government policies as criminals, any act of dissent is projected to the public as Treason or Un-Islamic? Furthermore, he has tightened his grip on media and internet control by blocking almost all sites which express the free will of the people. DO is now taking legal advice on what steps to take against companies like Dhiraagu who fails to adhere to constitutional law, which explicitly states that the Freedom of Expression is allowed in the Maldives. Dhiraagu must not follow in the footsteps of those who do not respect the rule of law. DO have contacted Cable & Wireless Plc., UK, which owns 45% share and manages Dhiraagu and have informed them of the situation. A formal complaint has been lodged now, failing a positive response from Cable & Wireless, DO will submit a formal complaint to the Telecommunications Regulator of United Kingdom OFCOM - www.ofcom.gov.uk about this violation of our basic right by a British company.

DO calls on Gayyoom to listen to the voice of the people and to respect our right to freedom of expression and association. Match your words with action, let us have a debate on political reform in its true spirit. Without a freedom of expression and association, the consequences of your actions will haunt our nation for a long time.

Editorial : DO calls upon Gayyoom for the immediate lifting of the ban on all dissent websites and allow free media and press to take its course in shaping the future of our country
Constitution of Maldives (PDF)
The Constitution of the Maldives "A Structure Built on Loose Sand"
Rhetoric to buy time: Another G-Constitution
IkwaIsWswaunUnWq
.evencniawbik egcnutiycawr Inwncnwa cnegiSef cawturWbWhemcnea egumugcnih ctwluawdihevid

Debate Constitutional Reform

HAVE YOUR SAY