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Jihad is not only limited to the use of sword but also word. You've only got to remove the "s" from sword

Opinion by a Reader, 27th June 2004

I have been reading your material on the website and those that come to me by email. Your work to inform the world of Maumoon’s brutal regime is appreciated by many like me. DO is doing a good job in informing the people of Maldives and making them aware of the principles of democracy and basic human rights.

In reference to the recent articles on constitutional matters and how Maumoon does not respect the law, I wish to state that it is not only the constitution that is law or considered law in the Maldives. Something far more powerful and influential is the, "Raeeesul Jumhooriyya ge Ofeehuge Dhennevun (Announcements of the Presidents’ Office)" All the Government run offices are bound by this "Dhennevun (announcement)". Simply the President announces any of his views, requests or demands or wishes, they become law. The reference to the comments of Government Spokesman Dr. Shaheed on BBC about the new amendments to the constitution being put to a public referendum is a perfect example of the power of this autocratic ruler’s word. Should that not be first incorporated into the constitution before that safeguard can be guaranteed this time around?

With regard to this “Dhennevun” I believe that there should be some reform and consistency in the administration of the Government. Nothing should be above the law. “Dhennevun” and other similar written messages or verbal messages made by the President becoming law or something politically more powerful than law itself is what is known as absolute dictatorship. Hitler once said “People are only an instrument bound to my own fate”. Hitler believes in allegiance not criticism and devotion not explanation. Hitler's thoughts and what he writes at night is law at sunrise. We do have a similarity in this.

If you consider the following example you'll know this is true. The moment the President announces that he would like government officials (regardless of their status) to contribute to some fund, then the top authorities will force on their subordinates to contribute a said sum not less than a certain amount. And in a day the government collects by the tens of thousands.

I wish you success in your bona fide course of work. Jihad is not only limited to the use of sword but also word. You've only got to remove the "s" from sword.