Home Minister Ali Ihusan said today that permission cannot be granted to hold protests on Majeedhee Magu during peak night-time traffic hours in Malé.

Responding to members’ questions at today’s sitting of the People’s Majlis, the Minister said the government intends to grant citizens the rights guaranteed by the Constitution as broadly as possible. However, he said other considerations must also be taken into account when granting those rights.

Noting that Majeedhee Magu is the busiest road in Malé, the Minister said that when granting permission to block the road for a political activity, the timing of the activity must also be taken into consideration.

He said that because the MDP has currently applied for permission to hold a large gathering during peak night-time traffic hours, permission to hold the gathering at that time cannot be granted.

Pointing out that there are other large spaces available in Malé for holding gatherings, the Minister urged political parties to make use of those venues instead.