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News in Brief
Maldives
Today
Main -
September 2004 - August
2004 -
July 2004 -
June 2004
Monday,
30th August 2004
Cabinet Reshuffle on the horizon
DO
has received information from a high ranking official
that Gayyoom has written to cabinet ministers suggesting
a possible re-shuffle of the cabinet. He mentioned that
last time he did this some of them went against him,
referring to Dr. Munavvar and Ibrahim Hussain Zaki, who
were laid off last November. This time around, Gayyoom
wants a written commitment from each minister that they
will not go against him. A golden hand shake is perhaps
the answer. Some ministers are destined to be posted as
Maldives Ambassadors abroad. New embassies and
representative officers are to be openly shortly.
read more in
DO Editorial
read
more
27th August 2004, Male'
Justice Minister Ahmed Zahir visiting America
Justice Minister Seena Zahir is currently visiting USA,
details of the trip are not known to the public. Some
pundits believe that this is part of the propaganda
operations of Gayyoom in trying to convince the world
that he is a democratic leader and that the Black Friday
was nothing but ‘MOB ATTACK’ on his legitimate
government. According to the pundits, Gayyoom did not
foresee this much international attention to the
Maldives issue.
Officials from United States of America are in Maldives
DO
can confirm that a delegation from US is currently in
Maldives and have visited the jail islands today. They
are also on a fact finding mission. Many locals have met
them and briefed them about the events of this month.
Commonwealth and Amnesty International Delegation to
visit Maldives
DO
have information that Commonwealth delegation will be
visiting Maldives shortly to find out more about the
situation in the Maldives. A delegation of Amnesty
International is also expected to visit the Maldives on
a fact finding mission and to lobby for the release of
prisoners detained arbitrarily.
Islamic Society of Britain alerted about the situation
in the Maldives
Maldivian reformists in UK have contacted the Islamic
Society of Britain [
http://www.isb.org.uk ] with regard to the situation
in the Maldives. Especially to highlight the attempts by
Gayyoom to label Sheikh Fareed and his friends as
fundamentalists and terrorists. They have also been
notified that Gayyoom uses Islam to his advantage and
labels reformists and pro-democracy leaders of Maldives
as Christian Missionaries. Islamic Society of Britain is
one of the most reputable Islamic bodies in Europe.
Detainees to remain in
custody until elections
DO
can reveal that Adam Zahir has informed his
investigating officers that the governments current plan
is to keep the key detainees in detention for 30 days
during which to get the papers signed for further
prosecution and detention. The Attorney General Dr.
Hassan Saeed is currently involved and assisting them
with the legal positions. They are expected to remain
under house arrest with no contacts with anyone
indefinitely.
Our sources also also claim that the government plans
to keep the detained MP's under arrest until the
upcoming Citizens Majlis elections. The government is is
also said to be contemplating to take them out of the
Majlis and to elect new members as soon as they can
conjure up a valid excuse to carry out its illegal
activities.
Gayyoom is also reportedly suspicious of some of the
members of his cabinet and some leading NSS figures and
all groups are actively spying on each other. A cabinet
reshuffle is expected before November 11 because of
these suspicions. Gayyoom is also reportedly suffering
from severe insomnia as he struggles to hold on to power
at all costs. Gayyoom special militia in NSS lead by
Adam Zahir is still on high alert.
'Ghost Detainees'
believed to be hidden
We are increasingly worried about reports
of Ghost Detainees (unlisted or not registered as being
detained - hence missing people) under NSS custody. It
is believed that that there might be hundreds held in
detention in different NSS buildings around Male'.
These are people who were brutally injured by the NSS on
Friday the 13th. Many Male' families are worried because
they have no idea where their family members are. The
government is refusing to admit there is anybody held in
custody that has not been informed of. Women and
children are believed to held and in need of medical
attention. And the government is making ridiculous
statements about how they are releasing people as they
are being processed.
up
Sunday, 29th August 2004
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Mohamed Naseem,
Laamu Atoll Member |
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Laamu Atoll Member Mohamed
Naseem arrested last night - 11 members in custody now
Gayyoom's National Security Service last night arrested
another member of the constitutional assembly, Hon. Mohamed
Naseem (Nafaa), Laamu Atoll Member. Confirming yet again that
he is after everyone who has shown any kind of defiance to his
rule. Mr. Naseem was also one of the 23 members who walked out
of the Assembly in protest. Gayyoom's brother Hameed even
arranged for a rally in Laamu Atoll near Maandhoo Fisheries
Complex of which Mr. Naseem is a partner. Mr. Naseem is most
famous in the Maldives for the Television Program NAFAA, which
discusses business and economics. Gayyoom cannot label people
like Naseem as being criminal elements, fundamentalists or
even Christian missionaries either. Mr. Naseem is however
works as a consultant for Qasim Ibrahim, who has been in
solitary confinement since 13th August, Black Friday along
with 6 other members. The total number of Majlis Members of
the Constitutional Assembly in custody is now 11 with an
additional member, Shareef of Addu on Male' arrest. He was
stopped from travelling and passport has been confiscated.
The Parliament seats occupied
by dummies
DO has confirmed that on last Thursday's Majlis
meeting held by Gayyoom to "inform the parliament of the
current situation", on top of the out right lies Gayyoom told
that day, was infact a charade created for the benefit of
Gayyoom's media.
The Majlis audience seats were all occupied by president's
office staff. They were informed to attend the Majlis meeting
before any public is due to arrive so that most of Majlis
seats can be occupied by president office staffs. The public
who arrived little bit later were sent back home after they
have been told the audience seats were already occupied. No
seats were made available. It is believed that this was a
stunt conjured up by Gayyoom's foreign PR firm. At the meeting
Shaheed Zaki criticized the government for its excessive force
used against the ordinary public.
Does Gayyoom think he can try and deceive the people this much
and the people will simply not know about it? Can this man
ever stop telling lies? The truth is clear. Gayyoom needs to
be removed if he is unwilling to resign.
up
Saturday, 28th August 2004
Meemu Atoll Member Ahmed Shafeeq arrested this
evening
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From left: Meemu Atoll Member Ahmed Shafeeq,
Thaa Atoll Member Dr. Hussain Rasheed and
Ali Atoll Member Ilyas Hussain all three are
now in custody |
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Meemu Atoll Member Ahmed Shafeeq has been arrested
tonight and is now in custody along with 9 other members
of the special majlis (constitutional assembly of the
Maldives).
Everyone in the Maldives should now know the truth
behind the outrageous acts of Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom on
13th August which has caused great distress to thousand
of Maldivians. 'This is totally unbelievable, he is
still arresting people. He does not want to be
criticised by anyone but praised all the time. He thinks
he is God!' said the informant.
The world must not turn a blind eye to these illicit
activities of Gayyoom. The people of Maldives are fed up
with the regime of Gayyoom and wants change and the
international community must do its part in ensuring
that the rule of law is upheld in the Maldives, after
all we are also a member of the world community.
The people of Maldives will run out of patience at some
point and might take things into their own hands. Who is
the world going to blame then? So, formidable action is
needed now before things get out of hand. Who can sleep
well when their whole family is behind bars, beaten,
molested and even killed.
Sobir in Germany; Local TV news in Dhivehi reported that
Germany is with Gayyoom; that EU Mission is satisfied
with his brutality - On the contrary, the English news
reported that German Chancellor welcomes democratic
reform and nothing about the EU Mission report
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Hassan Sobir,
Tourism Minister |
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Tourism Minister Sobir is now in Germany to lobby EU members not to impose economic sanctions on Maldives
as a result of loosing confidence in Gayyoom's
government, which the world at large now believes is brutal and
oppressive after the incident of Black Friday 13th
August. Local TV news in Dhivehi language at 8:00 pm
local time reported that according to German officials, EU mission
is satisfied with the way Gayyoom's government is
treating the detainees and that the German government
has assured that EU will not impose economic sanctions on
Maldives.
According to our sources in EU, the fact finding mission
report was scheduled to be submitted to the EU
Commission only yesterday 27th August and no public
announcements or press releases have been made as yet
but a press release is expected in the coming week.
This propaganda was confirmed when the English version of
the news at 9:00 pm local time did not mention anything about the EU
mission report or sanctions but a reference was made to
the fact that the German Chancellor welcomed democratic
reform proposed by Gayyoom last June. Maldivians are as
usual kept in the dark and Gayyoom's propaganda machine
is in full swing.
Women's Affair Minister Aneesa Ahmed in Singapore lobbing
for Gayyoom
Minister Aneesa is in Singapore convincing the
authorities there that Gayyoom is a democratic leader
despite being labelled as one of the worst dictators in
the world today, a dying breed at that. What is quite
amazing is that Aneesa is also meeting with Maldivian
students there explaining that the purpose of this visit
was to clarify the events of 13th August. Aneesa is due
to visit Malaysia on the same mission.
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| Male' Member Hon. Athif
supports multi-party democracy - Speaking in the Reform
Debate on 5th July 2004 |
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Male' Member of the Consitutional Assembly Hon. Ahme
Athif (X-Ray) detained by Police
Hon.
Member of the Special Majlis for Male' has been
summoned to the Police this afternoon bringing the total
of parliament members in custody to 9. Reports confirm that
he has not been released.
Haa Dhaal Member Adhil who was summoned to the police
day before yesterday is also still in custody. Also,
last week, Addu Member Shareef was taken to police from
airport and released after confiscating his passport.
It is becoming very clear what this is all about.
Gayyoom is trying to apprehend all members who staged
the protest against his rule on 19th July. A protest
against his 'GODLY' rule is certainly seen as treason or
coup attempt or fundamentalist terrorists or unruly
elements?? Dr. Shaheed and the Maldivian government
appears reluctant to stick to one line of explanation.
up
Friday, 27th August 2004
Haa Dhaal Member detained by Police
 Hon.
Member of the Special Majlis for H Dh. Atoll was
summoned to the Police last night. Reports confirm that
he has not been released. It is further indication that
Gayyoom is arresting and harassing every one who has
opposed him over the past few week. Mr. Adhil is also
one of the 23 MPs who walked out of the parliament on
19th July in protest. He is also a vocal reformist and a
strong supporter of democracy and freedom movement of
Maldives.
up
Wednesday, 25th August 2004
Gayyoom banning more internet websites
In an effort to silent
dissent and mislead the public about the events of
Maldives currently, Gayyoom is banning independent media
sources left right and center in the past few days.
Due to Gayyoom's apparent
dislike for the truth Initially forced Gayyoom to ban
Dhivehi Observer since we began. To this date
he has been un successful in completely banning our site
being accessed from the Maldives.
After the failure to ban
DO, Gayyoom has started to ban many
international media websites in the Maldives. These
include regional news media organisations as well. More
attempts of censorship include heavy editing of BBC news
before it is aired in the Maldives. According to the
government this is done to make the news "consistent
with reality".
Due to these problems we
will be bringing articles from some international media
in a DO browser from now on so that
Gayyoom cannot restrict access to the news.
Unrest among members of
Yameen's gang
DO can reveal that Yameen has paid the
group Mrf 400,000/= to distribute among the members of
the gang as a bonus for the work that the members
of the gang has carried out in terrorizing the
population of Male'. Defectors from these gangs informs
us that Victory Suzeyn and Dhonbileh Ahmed has kept all
the money themselves and other members of the gang are
fighting for their share. One of Yameen's conditions to
the gang before giving the bonus was that they do not
reveal any secrets or information and the names of their
leaders to any body that they might have to answer at a
later date.
Aafathis reporter Still detained
Aafathis reporter and photographer HUSSAIN FIYAZ MOOSA
who was doing his duty on the Republican square and
covering the Black Friday event is still detained by the
government. It is believed that Fiyaz captured hard to
deny moments of NSS brutality on that fateful day. This
is also proof that that the government is going to great
lengths to cover up the truth of the 13th Friday. His
friends and family appeal to international bodies to
help in trying to obtain his freedom.
up
Monday, 23rd August 2004
Ibra's office raided
today
This morning around 0900 hrs the police raided illegally
detained Male' MP Ibrahim Ismail's office. The NSS spend
more than 2 hours illegally rummaging through everything
in the office. The NSS left his office around 1115 hrs.
The NSS took 2 CPU's (PC), 3 CD's, 4 Floppy disks and
some papers. No search warrant was shown at the premises
and they acted like thugs verbally and sometimes
physically abusing everybody at the premises. Gasim
Ibrahim's office was similarly raided the previous
night.
up
Sunday, 22nd August 2004
 Addu
Atoll Member Shareef taken into custody from Male' Airport tonight
DO has received confirmed reports that the Honarable
Member of the Special Majlis (Parliament) Mr. Ibrahim
Shareef (Addu Shareef) was arrested tonight after he had
cleared customs and immigration at the airport. It is
reported that Shareef was on his way to Colombo on a
private visit. Hon. Shareef has been a vocal critic of
Gayyoom's governing style and a pro-reformist. 'He has
no links with the demonstrations but he is arrested
because of his opposition to the government' said the
informant. This brings the total number of parliament
members in custody to a total of eight. As reported
earlier, all the member who walked out of the parliament
on 19th July in protest have been black listed by
Gayyoom as enemies of the state, which he believes he
owns.
28 detainees from the Black Friday protest are now
hidden in Maafushi Jail
DO has obtained inside information that 28 detainees
have been transferred to Maafushi Island prison today
from Girifushi training island. Many believe this is an
attempt to hide these injured detainees from the EU Fact
Finding delegation who will be arriving to the Maldives
tomorrow, Sunday. DO has already alerted relevant
authorities in this regard. This and continued arrests
of further dissidents of the regime of Dictator Gayyoom
is the prime evidence that the world needs to render its
support for the cause of implementing pluralistic
democracy in the Maldives. The detaineess are kept in
pairs of 4 in 8ft by 8ft cells. They were brought in to
the prison in handcuffs. They all looked poorly and
seemingly distressed. Surely, Gayyoom must be mad to
think that he can sell his 'plot' to the rest of the
world. MEP delegation will not be for sale. The EU
delegation has been briefed on the Maldives situation
and they are bound to criticise Gayyoom after their
investigation. Several reformists who are not behind
bars are willing to speak to them.
up
Sunday, 21st August 2004
Mr. Saadiq meets with EU human rights commission
Mr. Saadiq is returning tonight from Brussels after
meeting EU Human Rights Commission and other EU leaders.
They have promised to monitor the situation and to take
appropriate actions if Maldives fails to protect the
rights of the politicians and others who are currently
in detention. The French foreign ministry has informed
its nationals to be cautious if and when they visit
Maldives. US State Dept. is also expected to issue a
similar travel advisory this Monday.
Eyewitness tells of
torture
From eye witness accounts of scenes related to arrests
following mass arrests on the 13th and 14th August, MDP
Spokesman Mohamed Latheef’s daughter Jennifer was beaten
when she was taken into main NSS headquarters. She was
blindfolded at the time but there were people who saw
the actions of the police.
She was bleeding from the mouth due a severe blow
delivered to her face by the police officer.
Thursday, 19th August 2004
Reports from Gayyoom's detention centres; a makeover is
in session
Some
sympathetic prison guards are reporting that some of the
detainees are complaining of severe pains after being
repeatedly being beaten. They also confirm that the only
medication being given to most of the prisoners are very
minimal medication like Panadol. Tuesday Dr. Mohamed
Ahmed visited some of the detainees and prescribed
medication, but they have not been delivered yet, the
medication pending approval. According to these sources,
Jennifer and three other women claim that they were
fondled by some of the cops during their arrest. Some
detainees have been defiant and refused to talk unless
they are provided with lawyers. Senior detainees are
still coming to their senses as they have lost their
bearing after being held in solitary confinement. Dr.
Munavvar is complaining about his hearing as he was
repeatedly slapped during the arrest. Ibra is reportedly
to be very vocal, but most junior guards have very
little to do other than carry out orders.
Our informers claim some detainees are still in
handcuffs and many others kept in a plastic stool
outside the cells for the last few days without sleep.
Two very young boys who has refused to identify
themselves were beaten severely and are complaining of
extreme pain. They have refused to get any medication or
see Dr. Mohamed Ahmed. Three others are on hunger
strike, and our informers tells us that hunger strikes
are very common when political prisoners are taken in
the Maldives but rarely heard of.
DO can also reveal that the prisons are
being painted and cleaned up as they expect a foreign
delegation coming soon for inspection. New mattresses
and bed sheets are being prepared to be provided when a
delegation comes and the toilets are upgraded. Workers
have been busy on the job all day.
THE STABBING WAS PLANNED BY YAMEEN
Three different sources within Girifushi NSS training
camp where some of the detainees are being kept are
confirming that Paidey (the guy who stabbed the cop with
a knife) was paid RF50,000 by Minister Yameen. Paidey
who is also being beaten on the beach of Girifushi, on
the 17th, admitted when questioned that Yameen had paid
him the money to stab an NSS person (it was never
planned who the victim was. Mazik was just unfortunate
it had to be him). He further admitted that somehow
Fareed was to be blamed for the stabbing.
up
Wednesday, 17th August 2004
New Cells being built in Dhoonidhoo Island Prison
Gayyoom has ordered the building of 100's of new cells
in Dhoonidhoo Prison Island to accommodate more
prisoners there. This is a worrying development because
he thinks that he can actually keep all these people
behind bars forever. Legal experts are concerned about
the loopholes in the constitution which gives him
sweeping powers to run the country under emergency laws
without a constitution for as long as he wants.
Maldivians are paying too higher a price for being quite
for over 2 decades. 'Indian government is likely to
pressure Gayyoom but like Saddam he wants to end up in a
hole with thousands of dollars' said an analyst from
London. 'The world is not as ignorant as Maumoon thinks'
he further added. DO is now consulting with
International Committee of the Red Cross and other
similar groups to see if they can assist in ensuring
that the prisoners are treated well.
MLD President Mr. Ismail Saadiq meets with US State
Department
Mr. Saadiq yesterday attended a meeting with US State
Department to discuss and obtain their support to stop
the atrocities being committed by the despotic Gayyoom.
Issues on obtaining the United States support on the
current political climate was discussed at the meeting.
Mr. Saadiq will travel today to Paris and is likely to
stop in London on Friday.
Government Spies among the
general public
"Nagaa
kiyaa meehun"
(strongmen in the guise of prominent
people)
from all the wards of
Male'
were invited to Maafannu Avashu Office on the night of
last Friday.
A great meal was prepared for these people in the ward
office. At this secret meeting,
they were given the responsibility of
working as spies for this regime. They were told that people are afraid to
talk when cops are around and hence they were given the
responsibility to spy whenever they see two people or
groups discussing things. Each of them has been given a sort of an ID
card which they can show to the cops whenever needed so
that the police can identify these people.
These spies among the society are protected by the NSS.
If they get into any trouble they are told to show their
ID card.
There are also phone numbers in the card to
whom they can call if they get into trouble. This is reminiscent of the Bimbi Force
that was created for similar reasons by the regime
cronies in the early 90's.
New developments
happening in Male'
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Day before yesterday (Sunday 15th August),
Defence Ministry called up the houses near Yameen's
house and advised them not to harbour or let anyone
visit their houses, who are not registered in their
house registry.
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BBC has done an interview with one of the
former inmates of Maafushi Prison
and they paid a visit to Human Rights Commission with
the inmate and requested for answers to some questions,
which the commission was not able to provide.
Compiling a list of
detainees
Dear all, we
are trying to compile a list of of detainees currently
held in Maldives prisons by Gayyoom and his Ba'athist
regime. We are all fully aware of the magnitude of the
task considering how tight the government is in
controlling information. But to help the people that are
locked up we need to be able to make certain who exactly
is being detained. Only confirmed
arrests please. This can include people who have been
arrested and later released, but please make this clear.
Please e-mail with details to
admin@friendsofmaldives.co.uk
A lot of people
have been phoning concerned about their friends in
Male’, so if we can get this list going it would be a
great help.
Fareed confirmed
to be beaten
Sympathetic cops inform us
that on the night after Sheik Fareed was arrested the
NSS had a field day beating him. "I was there when
Fareed gave his speeches to the public...I heard what he
said too... And I Know nobody deserves to be treated
like he was (Fareed). He is a very small man... the cops
know that. They had been arranged in a circle and just
went for it. At one point it appeared as if they were
playing soccer with a human football (basement level -
Shaheed Hussain Adam Building). I don't want to be part
of this anymore... that is why I am giving the
information", said the informant who didn't want to be
named. Fareed was reportedly screaming "Allah Akbar"
(God is great) repeatedly as he was getting beaten by
the NSS thugs.
Qasim Ibrahim maybe critically
injured and possible stroke reported
The most generous and loved man
in the Maldives is still in
detention along with more than 180
others. This is the official figure.
Some are estimating the figure to be
as high as 1500 now.
Concern for Qasim's health is
leading to mounting anger amongst
thousands of his staff; he suffers
from acute allergy to dust and falls
in when he has to inhale polluted
and dusty air. Furthermore,
Bronchoconstriction can also be
triggered by emotional upsets. He
underwent major surgery in Germany
about a year ago. Gayyoom is very
much aware of this but still
continues to keep him in detention.
Confirmed reports say that all
detainess, including Qasim, Ibrahim
Hussain Zaki, Munawwaru, Ilyas
Hussain and Dr. Hussain Rasheed have
all been beaten up by Gayyoom's
loyal security people. 'Everyone has
been beaten up, Gayyoom is teaching
Maldivians a lesson never to
retaliate against him' says an
informant.
- Authorities are not willing
to respond when called; please
call Dr.Shaheed, Gayyoom's
Spokesman on + 960 773999 or Fax
him on + 960 325054
- You may also call Adam Zahir,
Commissioner of Police on + 960
772828 or + 960 771226 or
- Chief of Staff Mohamed Zahir
on + 960 771225
BREAKING NEWS
Sandhaanu Ahmed Didi in critical condition at
Intensive Care Unit (IGMH).
Gasim Ibrahim has had a heart attack
(UNCONFIRMED)
Unconfirmed reports coming from reliable
sources (two different sources) say that Mr.
Gasim Ibrahim has had a heart attack and
Doctors are being taken to Dhoonidhoo Prison
where he is reportedly detained. No further
details at this time. We will update as soon
as we get any news.
INJURED IN EDUCATION BOOK PRODUCTION UNIT IN
VELAANAAGE
IGMH says nobody is admitted there. NSS
Insiders say that many injured are being
held there. "This evening I saw Abdulla
Riyaz (NSS) Ahmed Hafiz (DG, Defence) Abdul
Latheef Gasim (IGMH) and Shakir (NSS,
Welfare) and many more NSS person coming out
from there.
Cameras and mobile phones confiscated
Many Maldivians
had had their their cameras and camera
mobiles confiscated by the NSS. The government
is trying very hard to cover up the beating of
the innocent public on the 13th August Black
Friday. DO has been unable to get
pictures of the beatings for the last 3 days,
but we are now slowly starting to receive
pictures of that days events. We will bring as
many pictures as we get them as we have know
doubt these photo's would speak for itself.
up
Tuesday, 16th August 2004
IGMH ICU patient list keeps growing
Sandhaanu
Ahmed Didi who was one of the cyber dissidents
that had been jailed, the protestors demanded
freedom, is now confirmed to be in ICU. His
condition at the moment is so serious he may not
recover at all. If Ahmed Didi were to die
Gayyoom and his brothers would have to be held
accountable for his death. May got grant Ahmed
Didi good health and to come out of this
injustice stronger and more able than ever.
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Ziyad's (Ziatte
of Saljamuge) condition reported to be getting
worse. He has been in critical condition since
Friday.
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MDP had a very
successful press conference today in Sri Lanka.
More details of the conference will be brought
as we get them.
Announcement
BBC World Service Radio from 11:00 GMT will broadcast an
interview with DO Editor in Chief regarding the barbaric
acts of Gayyoom -
to listen on the web go to
www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice
First it
was 50, then 90, 150, 200.... More arrests
continue today
More
arrests are still being conducted by the
government today. We have just confirmed that
Ali Shiyam (AAA),
Zuhaira, Suzan
Ibrahim Fulhu and Mohamed Mahir (Lhoheege)
has been arrested. It appears Gayyoom is
targeting all prominent businessmen in the
country that doesn't agree with Gayyoom's
Ba'athist philosophy of torture and oppression.
At the rate Gayyoom is going it appears that he
will clean out about 50% of major businessmen in
Male', which would ultimately result in the
collapse of the Maldives economy if action is
not taken to stop Gayyoom and his brothers on
their mad rampage.
Sheik Fareed
arrested
Sheik Fareed has been arrested a while back from his
house, DO can confirm. It is reported that NSS blocked
the whole road and there were more than 50 policemen at
the scene. The public are extremely concerned about the
fate of the detainees. Sheikh Fareed has reportedly been
hiding from the police. Sheikh Fareed gave several
speeches to the thousands of protestors on the 'Dark
Friday'. Gayyoom must show restrains and resist his
animal instincts. 'what can you expect from a mad dog? I
think Fareed will be killed, we are very concerned' said
the person who informed DO about this incident.
Eyewitness account of the arrest
He was arrested while he was in his wife's house. A
lorry full of military police came to that road near
Maaveyo Mosque. They went in to his wife's house and
asked for him and his bro told that he's not there. Then
a person outside the house told them that he was
upstairs; so, they went up and arrested him there. While
he was arrested he told them not to harm him, that he
will go peacefully and he was saying that he fear no one
but Allah. While they brought him out of the house they
pushed him from the back while they were holding his
neck from behind. There are still a lot of police in the
area.
X-ray Athif released
X-ray Athif
has been recently released after investigations. HE is
currently at work in ADK hospital. We have not been able
to get anymore information as of yet.
Suicide bombers in Male'
We have
information from very reliable sources that there are
about 2 suicide bombers currently in Male'. It is
reported through his business associates connections
with LTTE, Yameen has arranged for suicide bombers to be
on stand by if things didn't go his way. These suicide
bombers are reported to be currently employed in the
Labour Ministry as common labourers.
Our informant
reports that Yameen's plan was to be prepared for the
PSM Majlis which was scheduled to be re-convened on
Monday. He had been fearing pro-reform activist to take
over the Majlis proceedings. Our source confirms that
secret plans are being drafted between Yameen ad Hameed,
to detonate a suicide bomb near the president Gayyoom
and MDP was to be blamed and Yameen would take over as
president. An interim government was to be formed and
Hameed was to be the initial interim president. Yameen
would become President after "proper" elections would be
carried out.
It is
unlikely this plan of Yameen can be carried out anymore
after the events of Friday. We have also confirmed by
our source within the cabinet that Yameen was filling
the duties of "commander in chief" on Friday.
Jennifer Latheef being tortured
We have just gotten word that Jennifer Latheef,
currently in detention in NSS training island of
Girifushi is being tortured. We have confirmed reports
from many sympathetic police personnel confirming that
the prisoners are hooded, cuffed with their hands behind
their back and are being systematically beaten.
ALL Airports are under tight security control by
the NSS.
All outgoing Maldivian passengers are closely
scrutinised by cops who carry a list of names with
them of people they want to capture.
Last night, a celebratory dinner was held at Theemuge
with all regime cronies watching TVM newly made anti
reformist programme.
Mohamed Ziyad, of Saljamuge is who has been in ICU
since Friday after the NSS beat him up is believed to
have been transferred to Singapore after his condition
became too critical. IGMH has not been able to give a
statement on this matter.
up
Monday,
15th August 2004
Internet and SMS services back online
SMS and internet in Maldives have been reconnected today
at 12.30pm. The government in its announcement on the
Maldives Radio apologises profusely for the service
being disconnected and inconveniences incurred by the
users of these services. The government also justified
it as a necessary move to control "the illegal
gathering" last Friday.
Cafe's and restaurants to be shut at 11pm
The government announces that all cafe's, restaurants ad
all other places that serves food is to be shut at 11pm
every night until future notice. The announcement
claimed that it was necessary for this action to be
taken, to make it easier to maintain peace and stability
in Maldives.
The announcement made no mention of any compensation for
any loss of income incurred by the proprietors of these
business.
Curfew still on
The state of
emergency that Gayyoom announced under the powers vested
in him by the article 144 of the Maldives constitution
is still in effect. The local radio is still announcing
that being on the street after 11pm till 5.30am is
illegal.
Eevan's mother was arrested again
Eyewitnesses are reporting that the
mother of Hassan Eevan Naseem has been also arrested in
the recent wave of mass arrests relating to the public
protest on last Friday. "Mrs. Mariyam Manike was being
dragged out of her house by NSS by force as she was
kicking and screaming protesting she had rights" said
the eye witness who did not wish to be named.
Dhivehi Observer fully condemns this action by
the government to brutalise a grieving mother.
Mariyam Manike had been noted by the
government as "unruly element" in society after she
demanded justice for her murdered son on the 19th
September 2004 at the hands of NSS thugs.
MDP secretariat Mohamed
Latheef's family arrested
We have received information from
relievable sources that all family members of Mohamed
Latheef, MDP secretariat, currently living in Male' was
arrested some times yesterday. Latheef's family has been
a constant target for harassment by the Gayyoom regime
for the last year since the formation of the Maldivian
democratic Party. Latheef and his wife at the time of
arrest of his family members were staying in Sri Lanka.
Arbitrary arrests still
continue of prominent people of Male' society
More arrests continue in the tiny island
capital of Maldives today.
Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan, Human Rights Commission
member and famous lawyer Husnu-Al Suood, Male MP Ahmed Athif (X-ray), are now confirmed to be in the
custody of the NSS.
Unconfirmed reports are saying democracy
advocates and musicians Mohoj and Huchen are both
arrested. We have not been able to verify this news as
of yet. Conditions of those recently arrested are not
known to us at this point in time.
Shops in Male' being shut
by NSS
Many shops in Male' owned and suspected
to has contacts with reformists are being shut down in
Male' Many Male' residents are getting fed up by the
actions. They want to know under which clause of the
constitution does the government get its authority to
take away the livelihood of many people in Male'.
up
Saturday, 14th August 2004
Government still
looking for reformists is their targeted 'hunting'
TVM is reading out announcement looking for the
whereabouts of the following people.
1. Shiek Fareed
2. Zuhaira
3. Suzan Ibrahim Fulhu
4. Mohamed Mahir (Lhoheege)
At the end of the announcement this line was read out.
"adhi
dhannavameve... mi in meeheh filuvumugaa evvess gothakah
eheetheri vejje nama ganoonee gothun fiyavalhu elhaane
vaahaka dhannavameve"
It roughly translates as, "We say again, if anybody
assists in hiding them legal action will be taken
against them as well".
Fire in Huravee Building was started deliberately by the
government
A prominent Maldivian businessman (name withheld for his
safety) just called DO hotline and gave an
eyewitness account of the fire that was started in
Huravee Building yesterday. He explained how he had
observed in the street in front of Medhuziyaarai
two Fire fighting trucks pulling up just near the
Huravee Building about half an hour before the fire
started. The firemen then proceeded to go in the
building and do something. The informant was not able to
verify exactly what these firemen had done. After about
20 minutes inside they came out and proceeded to prepare
for an emergency. They had gotten all their equipment
ready when the fire burst out at the building. While the
fire fighters were busy putting out the fire, the NSS
announced that due to public displays of violence that
they have no choice but to declare a state of emergency
and arrest people to bring the situation under control.
More
News In Brief
- We have been able to confirm that Minister Yameen
Have been supplying drugs to a mob today. The drugs
have been reportedly worth at about Rf25,000. Our
informants from the mob reported to us that each of
the senior guys in the gangs received 5 heroin
"bullets" each from Yameen agents. It is expected that
more acts of arson or rampage might be orchestrated
tonight and in the coming days to put further blame on
organised groups calling for reform such as the
Maldivian Democratic Party.
- The detainees from yesterday are being transferred
secretly to Dhoonidhoo Detention center in near Male'
in NSS coast guard vessels. They are confirmed to have
be blindfolded when they where being transferred. It
is very much reminiscent as how Gayyoom government
treated the prisoner on the 1989 November 3rd attack.
This just goes to show how much contempt the
government is holding towards the Reformists.
- Our sources in NSS have been able to confirm that
detainees have been kept standing up and blindfolded
since yesterday. No word as to how their condition
might develop has been received at the moment.
- Lower ranking NSS personnel are still getting
orders from the NSS bosses to carry out searches and
arrests. They have been given list of people to be
arrested and searches are still being conducted.
- Our insiders are reporting that the government is
going to brand Sheik Fareed as a fundamental Islamic
activist with ties to terrorist groups in Pakistan and
Al Qaeda.
- An emergency meeting is to be underway shortly
with members from MDP office in London with members
from Friends of Maldives. This meeting will be
attended by their respective legal representatives to
develop further action plan in response to Gayyoom
brutality yesterday. Representatives from the new
independent Dhivehi language radio channel "Minivan
Radio" (soon to be on air) will also be attending this
meeting as well. We will update on this as we get more
news.
-
We have confirmed news that there are many
prisoners being taken to NSS training island of
Girifushi in Male' Atoll.
According to our source within the NSS,
many of the people in Girifushi are common everyday
people who had just participated in the protest to
voice their concerns over how the government is
treating the people. Our source confirms there are
many women among the arrested and they are all kept in
blindfolds still.
90
arrested, admits the government; The numbers are still
growing
A number of
random arrests are still being conducted through out
Male' today. The government spokesman Ahmed Shaheed in
his interview to Reuters, he had confirmed yesterday the
official numbers of arrests were at 90. After the many
arrests that has been conducted since the interview we
have not been able to verify the actual numbers at this
point in time.
BBC reporters
in Male'
DO
has received word from reliable sources that BBC
reporters are currently in Male'. They will be reporting
live any future developments in the Maldivian political
crisis. They will be covering all aspects of the story,
both the opposition and the governments view on all
matters.
Government media congratulates Gayyoom for "decisive
action"
Gayyoom controlled media is distributing propaganda with
puppets on television and radio congratulating Gayyoom
for his "vision and decisive action that he had taken to
prevent a catastrophe". Many island chiefs and atoll
chiefs are congratulating Gayyoom on behalf of the
people of their respective atoll without consent from
the people.
Little does Gayyoom and his cronies realise that this is
not just a small group of people belonging to a
political party that is asking for reform, but the
nation as a whole.
Gayyoom's actions yesterday is undoubtedly going to have
repercussions as different groups wanting reform is
going to re-organise themselves as the dust settles on
yesterdays brutality. What we fear is that any group
that decides to take this matter into their own hands
might not be as peaceful as the public might want them
to be.
If things go this way, Gayyoom will be held accountable
for any negative consequences the events of yesterday
might bring in the coming weeks and months.
up
Friday, 13th August 2004
Gayyoom declares he is exercising power vested
in him by the constitution under article 144
Proclamation of Emergency
144.
Where the President has determined that the
security of the Maldives or part thereof is
threatened by war or foreign aggression or civil
unrest, the President shall have the right to
issue a Proclamation of Emergency.
---------
We had initially reported that
Gayyoom is exercising power under article 44. It
was a mistake. It was article 144. We apologise
for this misunderstanding.
DO
would like to note there is
nothing in this article that justifies his
actions. The violence was instigated by NSS
goons. We condemn Gayyoom's actions and demand
he restrain himself.
NSS crackdown on peaceful protestors
latest Update
as at 8.45pm Male' local time
>>>
-
Gayyoom propaganda websites
report that Gayyoom is still in the country and
very much in control.
-
They also report that Yameen is
still in the government.
-
The police are still conducting
arbitrary arrests in the capital.
-
Eyewitnesses are saying that the
police did not differ in their brutality
regardless of the age if their victims. Old and
young alike have been injured.
-
Many attacks were also targeted
attacks at vocal reformists. This was a similar
tactic used during the prison shootings as well.
latest Update
as at 8.00pm Male' local time
>>>
-
Reports are coming in that Gayyoom has left
the country to Sri Lanka in a Island Aviation
Dash 8 flight. He is also expected to fly to
UK later tonight. We have not been able to
confirm this as yet. If this is the case we
will be requesting the British government to
look into this matter as soon as possible.
-
Reports are coming in that Yameen has resigned
from the cabinet just now.
We have not bee able to confirm this as yet.
-
Abdullah Hameed has gone missing. Nobody has
been able to identify his whereabouts at this
point.
latest Update
as at 7.15pm Male' local time
>>>
-
Due to the fact that Maldives
internet and phone services are down, we have
been unable to get more information as it
happens. We will be updating as we get them.
This is just goes to show how far Gayyoom is
manipulating the media to cover up the truth.
His first attempt under emergency rule was to
cut all sources of information.
latest Update
as at 6.30pm Male' local time
>>>
-
Justice building is now
confirmed to be on fire. The fire is reported
to be under control.
-
The injured policeman has been
confirmed to be Private Hussain Maziq (19
years). He is in ICU at the moment. No word on
who stabbed him.
latest Update
as at 6.21pm Male' local time
>>>
-
It has been confirmed that
Male' MP Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra) has been
arrested about an hour ago.
-
There is no news of any of the
current conditions of the arrested MP's,
reform activists. Some are believed to have
been beaten. We have not yet been able to
confirm this.
latest Update
as at 6.00pm Male' local time
>>>
-
At 6 o'clock English news on
Maldives Radio, Gayyoom congratulates the new
Singapore PM for assuming power. No mention of
the current events was mentioned. Gayyoom is
again proving to be heartless as usual.
-
Male' internet and SMS services
have been disconnected by the government. It
is not known when it will be back online.
-
All public meetings, gathering
and sports competitions and similar have been
cancelled.
latest Update
as at 5.55pm Male' local time
>>>
-
Gayyoom declares
he is exercising power vested in him by the
constitution under article 144.
-
Radio and TVM announcing people
to remain indoors.
-
The government media has as of
yet refused to acknowledge that WHY even the
people had organised a protest. It is still
calling it as an illegal gathering.
-
A part of Huravee Building was
set alight by one of the gangs.
-
Reports are coming in of
Justice building on fire - unconfirmed.
-
A police man has been stabbed.
Many different sources have said he is dead.
Some are saying in critical condition in ICU.
WE have no details on who or how.
-
We are getting reports of
fatalities, but have not been able to confirm
as of yet.
-
Earlier today, 40 or more
prisoners broke out from Maafushi jail and
tried to take a dhoni to Male’. They were
picked up by the NSS Coast Guard some where
between Maafushi and Male’ - no news on
their condition has been received yet.
Confirmed News
latest
>>>
- Munawwaru arrested - confirmed
- Gasim and Zaki also in detention -
confirmed
- Ziyadh MDP member is in a critical
condition in ICU - confirmed
- They are now looking for Mohamed Shihab,
not yet found - confirmed
- Many are injured
latest Update
>>>
-
Unconfirmed reports are coming in that Gasim
and other reform activists have been arrested.
We have not yet been able to verify this.
-
Many people are randomly being
arrested off the streets.
-
Police have been coming to
people houses and asking for them. Most noted
have been the discriminatory profiling of
people who wear beards.
-
Many are have been injured and
beaten up.
-
Many casualties at the
Hospital.
-
We will bring more updates
as we get them.
click
to view a video clip (this morning around 11 am)
We are waiting for more pictures.
We will publish them as we get it.
latest Update
>>>
-
State of Emergency Declared,
scores of people injured in Male', Police
doing door to door hunting of key reformists
-
Police have
moved in with tear gas and are using force to
disperse the crowd. Situation is very tense now.
Also rubber bullets being used.
-
Maldivian's
Want Gayyoom's Immediate Resignation
-
Gayyoom has refused to resign
- crowd still demonstrating peacefully.
More pictures
UPDATES >>>>
14.05
More people are still gathering at the
Jumhooree Maidhaan.
14.00 There has not been a single incident of
any violence from the peaceful protesters
gathered in the Jumhooree Maidhaan.
13.55
The government has unveiled its new spin on the
events occurring in Male' right now.
The Voice of
Maldives have just announced that "during the
illegal public gatherings, with people using
abusive language against the government leaders,
due to the disobedience to the police present on
scene by the crowds, a fight had occurred which
resulted in 2 police officers being injured. One
of the policemen is reported to be in a critical
condition. The government has noted who is
responsible for these actions and will prosecute
in due time"
13.45 Minor incidents have been
occasionally reported to have occurred after
being instigated by the Yameen backed street
gangs. No serious attempts of violence has not
yet been attempted by any of these gangs.
The protest is said to continue on despite the
warnings on the Maldives radio. Some people have
now gone home to refresh themselves after a long
night of vigil outside the NSS headquarters.
13.29 SMS service has been
blocked for 3 hours now
12:59 Government
Spokesman have lied to the BBC. Dr. Shaheed told
them that a policeman has been stabbed by the
public and police might use some force to
disperse the crowd. There has been no reports of
this except on pro-Gayyoom websites. Yameen's
mob are trying to derail this peaceful
demonstration.
It is reported that the NSS is
taking control of things and protecting the
people. They are now in control of Voice of
Maldives, TV Maldives and the main Hospital,
this is now being confirmed.
12:40 The release of Sandhaanu
people and Naushad Waheed not yet confirmed by
police. Moosa Jaleel agreed in principle but
have not reconfirmed
12:20 Male' Time : Maldivians are
now demanding the resignation of Dictator
Maumoon. No government Minister is anywhere to
be seen. His Palace is locked up and all
Ministers are at home too, it is reported.
The voice of Maldives is
announcing that this is an illegal gathering.
NSS officers are trying to negotiate with
reformist MPs.
Latest : people now demanding
Gayyoom's resignation. Emergency cabinet meeting
now underway in Presidential Palace. Sheikh
Fareed addressing the people now. Others also
addressing including Zuhaira and Abujee.
Naushad Waheed free and
addressing the crowd :: when democracy comes it
comes with a bang!
up
Thursday, 12th August 2004
All Sandhaanu prisoners now
released (in agreement only)... Naushad Waheed now in the crowd...
addressing.. crowd demanding his release too..
ALL DETAINEES
BEING RELEASED :: GASIM ADDRESSING THE CROWD
All the remaining detainees
are now on their way to Male' from Dhoonidhoo
island :: crowd
is now demanding for the release
of other prisoners of
There are more than 4000 people
now protesting for their release. Gayyoom has
asked Gasim Ibrahim and other reformist MPs to
calm the crowd. There is only one way.... to
release the detainees... latest news is that the
detainees are on their way to Male'....
Fulhu is released
People gathering near Police Headquarters in
Male' demanding release of reformists
Reports are coming in from Male' that a protest
is underway near the NSS headquarters demanding
the release of the reformists who have been
arrested and detained in Dhoonidhoo. DO will
update as we get the news.
 Ibrahim
Hussain Zaki's house door smashed by Yameen's
mobs and Suzan was attacked last night
Hon. Zaki, former cabinet
Minister and now a reformist, MP for Ari Atoll,
was harassed by Yameen's mob last night. This
mob is said to be paid by Yameen to harass and
threaten reformist MPs and others. Hon. Zaki's
house door was smashed by the mob and police
refuse to apprehend the culprits.
Also Susan Ibrahim Fulhu was
attacked by this mob last night. She sustained
injuries and had to go to the hospital.
The mob also sent SMS to Dr.
Munawwaru. Hon. Zaki and other reformist MPs
threatening to kill them before the 16th day
meeting of the Special Majlis.
Yameen is now staying in his mini
palace in Funadhoo Island next to Male' because
he does not feel safe.
 Fulhu
arrested because he called Zahir Hussain and
demanded an explanation about the harassments
reformist members are receiving in Male' these
days
Mr. Fulhu (Mohamed
Yousuf) has just been taken into custody whilst
he was sitting in Esjehi Gallery. Five Police
personal came and took him without so much as
showing a warrant or anything. They just came
and said "come with us to the Police"!
Island Aviation Flights Cancelled
Locals are concerned about
the cancellation of all domestic flights by
Island Aviation from 8th - 16th of this month.
There are several locals who are stuck in
islands and cant come to Male' because of this.
In addition to that, tourists in Gan Reef Resort
are stuck there as well. Tour Operators are
concerned but no one is paying any attention.
Rumour has that this is government cutting off
with the islands as they suspect lot of locals
from the islands want to come to Male' for the
16th day meeting.
Arbitrary Arrests
in Male'
|
|
|
 |
|
Firshan Zahir |
|
 |
|
Hussain Rasheed |
|
Two reform activists
in Dhoonidhoo Island Prison & Fulhu has just been
arrested
Firshan Ahmed Zahir, son of former Colonel Ahmed Zahir,
and nephew of current Chief of Staff Mohamed Zahir was
taken into custody and is detained in the notorious
Dhoonidhoo Prison now. His friend Hussain Rasheed, and
brother-in-law of DO Editor-in-chief Sappe’ was also
taken into custody and now detained in Dhoonidhoo.
Firshan and Hussain manage a multimedia
company in Male’ and they have been filming events across the
island, such as the reform debates.
On the even of 10th August, a
policeman approached them and told them that very soon their cameras
and equipment will be confiscated and destroyed. To this, Firshan
responded and said “your time is up too, you cannot continue to
intimidate us!” and Hussain responded by saying that “even though
you are a police people you cannot say such things!”. This was
enough apparently to detain them both. Their respective families are
not told that they have committed a crime, which is to threaten the
National Security Service personnel.
Attorney-at-law, Husnu Al-Suood will
represent them and is hoping to meet with them today. They have
refused to talk to the police without the presence of their lawyer.
This is believed to be a new wave of
arrests to create fear amongst reformists. DO will be trying to
obtain a statement from the police and will publish further details
as and when available.
Ahmed Adam and Abdul Rasheed who
were arrested on 9th are also reported to be in Dhoonidhoo prison.
up
Monday, 10th August
2004
Mr.
Shuaib asked to report to the Police tomorrow
 Mr.
Shuaib Ali is a very active member of the reform movement in
Maldives. He organised and attended all the reform debate.
He is also a regular at the gatherings in the Tetrapod
Square in the eastern corner of Male' and does voluntary
work in Male' member for Special Majlis, Hon. Ibrahim
Ismail's office. Mr. Shuaib has been asked to report to
police tomorrow apparently to get some information regarding
a case. This is a trick that the Maldives police play and
many disappear for months once they report in good faith.
However, times have changed and reform movement members are
fully in support of Shuaib's work and are going to stick
together and challenge the authority if that is what it
takes to implement the pluralistic democracy in the
Maldives. Telling times are ahead for the reformists in the
Maldives but they are showing no signs of weakness.
up
Sunday, 9th August 2004
Gayyoom
contemplating mass arrests
Gayyoom is apparently considering
arresting most of the reformists, reliable sources say. This
is to bring an end to the growing number of opposition to
his tyranny. However, he is unable to carry out a clean
sweep because of the sheer size of the group. This is under
serious consideration at the moment and reformers are not to
be alarmed by this development.
As the sceptics said from day one after
the reform speech of 9th June, Gayyoom does not
intend to pursue any reform except a few minor amendments
that will allow him to remain as head of state, for the rest
of his life. He just wants to appoint a Prime Minister, most
probably one of his daughters.
Mr. Thoha, a senior reformist was summoned
to the police today for questioning. This was with regard to
some papers being distributed in Lonuziyaaraiy Kolhu last
night. This is perhaps a sign of the rough ride ahead for
the reformists.
We believe that Gayyoom will be very
stupid to carry out any arbitrary arrests now as he has done
in the past. That would be inviting violence on the streets
of Maldives and perhaps that is his intention. Reformists
will ensure that the rule of law is upheld and the world at
large will be informed about any and all such events.
Gayyoom and his cronies can take this as a warning from the
reformists, “you take one of us, we are all in”.
Gayyoom
meets with Buruma, Koli and Champa
Yesterday, Gayyoom met with 3 most
powerful businessmen in the Maldives, Mr. Qasim Ibrahim, Mr.
Mohamed Umar Manik (Koli) and Mr. Hussain Afeef (Champa).
Insiders have confirmed that the elite group recommended
that the proposed reforms be implemented. They also
expressed their concern for the negative campaigning
conducted by Gayyoom’s brothers and cabinet Ministers at
large.
The elite group believes that the Maldives
economy is bound to suffer if the proposed reforms are not
brought about quickly because the population is absolutely
resolute on these reforms. Gayyoom however, suggested that
he has to consult with the senior figures in the government,
who have served more than 40 years before these reforms are
implemented. This implies that the wishes of his cronies are
given a higher priority over that of the will of the people.
This is the Gayyoom that we know; a thoroughbred tyrant.
British Foreign Secretary has sent a private letter to
Gayyoom
DO contacted the British Foreign &
Commonwealth Ministry this morning who have confirmed that
the Foreign Secretary Jack Straw has sent a letter to
Gayyoom last week welcoming the reforms debates pursued in
the Maldives and encouraged him to implement the reforms
suggested in the June Speech.
This letter will remind Gayyoom that
foreign governments with close ties to the Maldives such as
Britain remain concerned about the political situation in
the Maldives. Speaking to DO, James Dauris, Deputy Head of
South Asia of the Foreign Ministry today confirmed that they
are following and monitoring the situation in the Maldives
with interest. DO Editor in Chief informed them of the
current situation in details such as the unlawful banning of
reform debates of the public and that of organising public
assembly. DO also informed them of the desperate situation
in which the people now gather in Male’ in the evenings
because they are unable to get any meeting place or even
permission to hold a gathering.
The Special Majlis to be convened on Monday announced
today
It has been announced today that the Special Majlis
Session which was postponed on 19th July will re-convene on
Monday 16th August 2004. There has been a lot of speculation
on this and concern about the delay.
up
Sunday, 8th August 2004
The Majlis likely to be convened on Wednesday
DO
is getting word that the Majlis is likely to be resumed
on Wednesday. An in-law of Gayyoom informed us that Gayyoom
is planning to have the Majlis meeting on Wednesday the
11th. The problem is that if it is set to resume on
Wednesday shouldn't there be a public announcement to this
effect? We are well aware that the delaying tactics of
Gayyoom is not only slowing down the reform process, but it
is also costing the Maldivian tax payer (indirectly). MP's
are paid about Rf. 5000 per month. If we take into account
the number of MP's and how long it is taking just to get
started, we can only imagine how much this whole process is
going to cost the whole nation.
Gaafu Dhaalu Delegation to Male' for Praising Mr. Hameed
A delegation from Gaafu Dhaalu has departed to Male' for
praising Atolls Minister Hameed (Thinadhoo people call him
Dhoonibo). The delegation has three members, Madaveli
Katheeb Habeeb, Fiyori Kuda Katheeb Ahmed Didi, Rathafandhoo
Kuda Katheeb Mohamed Najeebu, Nadalla Katheeb Mohamed
Rasheed and Rasheeda Ibrahim Rasheed (Hirihamaidhi Rasheeda)
from Thinadhoo.
This has been organized by Mr. Deny, Abdulla Hilmy who
is one of the representatives appointed in Thinadhoo as
Senior Assistant to Atoll Chief. Mr Deny was a family health
worker in 1980s which has no qualification other than the
level of Gr.7. It is also alleged that he was involved with
a sexual relationship with his wife's mother. He also
brought young girls from Islands by persuading their parents
that he would provide them with an education. He also
brought 15 young girls from various islands for in the
purpose educating them. What was taught to these young
beautiful girls whilst he and his friends had sex with them
regularly had scared the girls for life. Those
innocent girls were raped by him with no mercy and they were
subsequently frightened to reveal these details hence he has
the power granted by Mr Dhooni Bo. A fully compiled details
of these incidents are also available in the event Gayyoom
government falls so that justice can be obtained for their
lost rights.
Secret meetings among these Hameed supporters are being
carried on, to compile letters showing the support for
Hameed. This is very usual as bundles of letters from Gaafu
Dhaalu have been pouring at Presidents Office to indicate
the support for Mr. Hameed.
up
Saturday, 7th August 2004
Yameen funding a mob in Male'
Yameen, the Trade Minister and the younger
brother of Gayyoom has reportedly been meeting
with some youngsters from his ward and
brainwashing them to disrupt the peaceful
activities of the reformists in Male'. There
were present in the gathering at Easter corner
of Male', the Tripod Squre tonight and were
looking to make trouble. However, these
youngsters are not so keen to carry out the job
according to their friends. They are finding
themselves isolated in the face of growing
number of people who wants change in Maldives
and who wants Gayyoom to resign.
Hameed's family to file a lawsuit against MPs
DO informants confirm that Hameed's daughter Dr. Fathin Hameed has submitted lawsuits for
defaming her father against the members of the
Special Majlis who attempted attempted to file a
treason case against their father, the incumbent
Speaker of the Majlis as well as the Atolls
Administrator.
In addition to that, Maumoon Hameed (Hameed’s
son in NSS) has submitted the same case against
these MP’s to the Human rights Commission.
The “Game Plan” is widely believed is to get a
court ruling, that the procedure carried out by
Hameed in Special Majlis on the 19th June was
according to the law, despite it being otherwise
according to the most experienced lawyers in the
Maldives such as former Attorney General and
Member of Parliament Dr. Munawwaru. As Hameed's
brother is the head of the judiciary, they can
bend the law and get away with it.
up
Friday, 6th August 2004
BREAKING
NEWS : 10:30 pm Male' Time
Huge Fire in Male'
'old rental house in Majeedhee Magu is
burning to the ground' says eye witness
 Reports are coming from Male' that the old
rental house near Sosun Mart is on fire. Eye
witnesses have reported that it is a huge fire.
No details are available as yet. DO Reporter
Mariyam Mohamed is at the seen now. Details will
be updated as soon as they are available to us.
UPDATES
11:05 pm Male' : Fire is now under control -
4 fire engines are there. Lots of local people
are surrounding the place. No injuries reported
yet and the cause still unknown.
Unconfirmed
reports say that the cause of the fire is known
to be an electric; short circuit.
There is rumours
that the fire was started deliberately to
destroy a lot of government files and books that
are stored in this old rental house complex. At
a time like this when the regime is trying to
hide things from the public, speculations such
as these are inevitable as public are quite vary
and has no confidence with this government.
up
Tuesday, 3rd August
2004
More NSS violence in
Dhoonidhoo against unarmed prisoners
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Dhoonidhoo island prison where prisoner abuse is more
frequent than random |
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DO is
getting reports that a young man was beaten up in
Dhoonidhoo island jail last night by the NSS. What is
known of the incident is that "Lady" Ibrahim Manik
started beating up an inmate which resulted in the
inmate retaliating back to defend himself. This single
incident reportedly had gotten out of hand with more
people being hurt.
While it is not known
exactly is who it was that Ibrahim Manik was torturing.
A different source is guaranteeing that it was one of
the boys who WAS shot in the September 2003 prison
shootings. The second informant who is a junior NSS
personnel said that these are frequent occurrings even
today which is kept under tight wraps at all times. This
time around the news got leaked because some inmates
were able to force out of their cells to retaliate
against the brutality of the NSS.
It is reported that St.
Sergent Faseeh from NSS headquarters was told by his
seniors to deal with this matter, which resulted in
Faseeh going to Dhoonidhoo on an emergency trip. Faseeh
returned back to Male' with the injured and was
subsequently released. The boy was not released formally
after paper work was done at the police station, but
rather at the jetty. The boy was informed by Faseeh that
if any of the details did come out, he would be sent
back to the jail. We have been trying to get a statement
from the boy with no results.
We called the police
headquarters and was told that nobody who is capable of
commenting on the situation is available at the moment.
Between a hard place and
reason; Gayyoom running out of options
Our insiders are reporting
that Speaker of the Majlis and Gayyoom's brother
Abdullah Hameed is pushing for more arrests of
reformists to 'calm' the insurgency as they like to
refer to it and gain more control of the present
political situation. It is reported that Adam Zahir and
Gayyoom's brother Yameen are backing Hameed for more
arrests.
Gayyoom is believed to be
apprehensive and more calculated than following the
irrational requests of his brothers. Gayyoom is refusing
to go all out at this point in time knowing that the
international community and international media is
observing all his activities like a hawk. Also Gayyoom
is aware that any arbitrary mass arrests would lead to a
severe backlash from certain reformist factions.
Labour Minister Abdul
Rasheed campaigning for Laamu atoll seat for the
upcoming Citizens Majlis elections
Minster for Labour Abdul
Rasheed is reportedly busy campaigning in Laamu Atoll
for the Upcoming election for the Citizens Majlis seat
for Laamu Atoll. It is reported that the Atoll Chief is
leading the campaign by Minister Rasheed with access to
certain government facilities. It is a Known fact that
campaigning under government funds is illegal under
Maldives Law.
What is more interesting
is trying to find out what the Atoll Chief is getting
out of helping Minister Rasheed with his campaign. He
has been barking orders at the helpless islanders all
day with remarks like, "kuththaa
ah wureves kaleymen nubayey" (literal meaning - you
people are worse than dogs)
refering to the public in general when the people
refused to listen take much notice of what Minister
Rasheed has to say.
It appears that all
cabinet ministers are campaigning for a seat at the
parliament for the upcoming election or is getting ready
to campaign for the upcoming parliamentary election.
Either way it seems Gayyoom is not prepared to go down
without a fight.
up
Monday, 2nd August
2004
Justice Minister Zahir is meeting Gaafu Alif ppl at MES
every night
 DO
can confirm that Justice Minister Seena Zahir is meeting
with people from Gaafu Alif Atoll almost every night as
part of his campaign for a parliamentary seat for that
Atoll. He is reportedly promising the people that he
will resign from the cabinet post if he is elected. Mr.
Zahir is one of the founding members of Male’ English
School and is abusing that to achieve his devious goals
to maintain Gayyoom’s regime by organising meetings
there. According the Maldives election laws and
regulation, no candidate can lobby for support and
campaign unless he has been accepted by the election
office and his campaign material approved by the
government. All this is preceded by an official
announcement from the Election office.
When it comes to Gayyoom’s cabinet ministers and their
friends, this election law appears irrelevant. Minister
of Youth, Dr. Zahir Hussain is openly campaigning in
Gnaviyani Atoll. Minister Yameen, Gayyoom’s brother is
helping his friends to carry on with campaigning in
Dhaalu Atoll. Abdulla Hameed’s friends are also
campaigning as well as his deputy Sheereen.
BREAKING NEWS
: Male' Time 1:15 pm
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Asif banned from traveling out of Male' |
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Asif has bee summoned to the NSS Police
Latest Update :
Asif was summoned because there were some discussions on
democratic reform in his party. Most of his friends are
reformists, what else can they talk about? He is now
banned from travelling out of Male' and is on the NSS
watch list. More parties are being planned if not in
school they will be held at homes of the reformist.
'Wake up Gayyoom, people are not afraid of you or your
police anymore' is the message reformists want to
deliver to Gayyoom.
Earlier : Mr. Ismail Asif has been summoned to
the police today. He has been asked to go to the police
at 2:00 which is with regard to the Birthday Party held at
Jamaluddin on the 29th July. The school hall was
given for a Birthday Party but later party which was
attended by the reformists and they criticized Gayyoom
as well as discuss reform. Gayyoom loves to be in
control no matter what. Asif yesterday received SMS text
messages warning him that he will be taken to the jail
and killed. Gayyoom thinks that the whole world will
show a blind eye to his misdemeanours and "he is
underestimating the resolve of the people of Maldives,
this is a grave mistake" said the reformist who updated
DO this morning. Asif will be going to the NSS with his
layer Husnu Suood.
up
Sunday, 1st August
2004
Special Majlis preparing
to reconvene
The meeting of the Special
Majlis with the mandate of amending the constitution of
the country is expected to reconvene on Monday the 2nd
of August.
DO has
received information from a source connected with the
Majlis, a police team lead by Faisal (senior presidents
security guard) is doing some work at the parliament. It
is not known exactly what the NSS are doing. It appears
they are 'upgrading' the security for the next session.
Updates
The Special Majlis meeting
has been postponed indefinitely again...
Reports from Male' says that police were present in the
Majlis to keep an eye on the Majlis Secretary General
Mr. Mohamed Nasheed... Some thing very strange happened
today they said... Mr. Nasheed on his own could not open
his office... the police opened and closed his office
for him.... It appears Mr. Nasheed is under suspicion by
the regime for something....
All the important phone
lines at the Majlis have been tapped according to recent
reports.
BREAKING NEWS :
Male' Time 18:15 pm
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Asif expected to be arrested and charged |
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Asif to be
charged for upsetting Gayyoom for organising an 'unusual'
Birthday Party
An insider at National Security
Service reported a few minutes back that Presidents' Office
has instructed them to investigate the
Birthday
Party held at Jamaluddin on the 29th July. The school hall
was given for a Birthday Party but later party was dominated
by the reformists and they criticized Gayyoom heavily. Gayyoom
is reportedly furious with this and has ordered to charge Asif
for violating the contract with the school.
Student meeting to be held
in Sri Lanka
A meeting to discuss and
inform Maldivian students about democratic reform is to
be held today in Sri Lanka. Dr. Waheed is expected to be
a guest speaker at the meeting.
We will bring more
information about the meeting as we get them.
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