:: Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

We all want Maumoon’s immediate resignation!

Mariyam Mohamed, Male' 5th July 2004

A very sharp message was conveyed to the autocratic ruler of the Maldives by the participants of Reform Conference held in Ghiyaasuddeen School Hall tonight. The conference was organised and chaired by Hon. Ibrahim Ismail, Male’ Member for the Special Majlis, who is also a Member of the General Council of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). The conference was aimed at debating and discussing the advantageous and the need for pluralistic democracy in the Maldives. An estimated 900 people participated in the conference which began at 9:00 pm and went on for more than 2 hours.

Some of the most prominent figures in the Maldives including several influential people such as Parliament Members and businessmen as well as some senior government officials participated in the debate tonight, which must be classed as yet another achievement for those who are promoting pluralistic democracy in the Maldives.

The hall was echoing with support for party system to be introduced in the Maldives. Prominent people like Hon. Qasim Ibrahim, Member of Special Majlis for Ari Atoll pointed out the importance of the check and balance system and the significance of the party system in that it creates healthy competition which can only benefit the society and the people at large. Sheikh Fareed also discussed in detail the advantages of party politics from an Islamic perspective and mentioned that discussing national issues is the way of Islam. Hon. Athif, Special Majlis Member for Male’ also expressed his views about pluralistic democracy and demonstrated his support for the introduction of political party system in the Maldives.

The meeting was a success in more than one way as people for a change have now begun to express their true feeling without fear and without prejudice. The most appealing and the most powerful statement was made by a group who displayed a banner which read “WE ALL WANT MAUMOON’S IMMEDIATE RESIGNATION!” in Dhivehi and English.

DO was able to speak to Hon. Ibrahim Ismail straight after the meeting. He stated that “the conference served its purpose well and that he was hopeful of a brighter future for the Maldives with the introduction of pluralistic democracy in the country”.

Several Participants expressed their absolute joy and satisfaction at being able to express their views in this manner and many are confident that this is the beginning of the end of autocratic rule in the Maldives.

Mr. Mahir, MDP Council Member said after the conference that "I am not surprised at all, we the Maldivians are not stupid, everyone desires a better life, freedom of expression and association, here is a clear evidence of what we the Maldivians aspire".

Another participant said "no one can turn back the clock now, it is democracy we want and that is what we will get!"

Others are obviously overjoyed by being able to simply express their views as one said "This is really breathtaking...this is a great feeling... being free!".

It is believed that another conference will be organised on Thursday this week by pro-reformers.

Hon. Athif, Special Majlis Member for Male'	Mr. Ali Abdullah a prominent businessman
Sheikh Fareed	Special Majlis Member Hon. Ilyas Hussain in the middle