Government Committed to Freedom of Expression Within Legal Boundaries: Minister Ihsaan

The Maldives' Homeland Minister, Ali Ihsaan, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression within the framework of the law, following criticism over the questioning of violent threat made by an opposition party activist by the police.

The controversy arose after MDP activist Hussain Shafiu posted on social media platform X, allegedly targeting President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu with a threatening statement: "Don't let me see you in the streets!". This sparked concerns from the opposition about restrictions on “free speech.”

In response to police summoning of the activist, MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail accused the government of suppressing dissent.

Minister Ihsaan emphasized the need to assess whether Shafiu’s statement constituted a threat to physical safety, questioning if such rhetoric would be acceptable under opposition leadership should it lead to harm. "If someone targeted you tomorrow, and the statement led to physical assault, would you still advocate for unbridled freedom of expression?" Ihsaan asked.

He described politicizing such incidents as "highly irresponsible" and assured that the government remains steadfast in its duty to protect individuals' safety, adhering strictly to legal processes. Ihsaan also reiterated the government's openness to diverse opinions expressed lawfully, dismissing claims of restricting free speech as unfounded.