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MDP's failed street
demonstration is an overwhelming public vote of confidence for
the President’s democratic reform agenda: Chief Government
Spokesman
25|01|2006 |
Chief Government Spokesman | e-mail
Male’, 25
January 2006 (Wednesday) – The Chief Government Spokesman,
Mohamed Hussain Shareef this morning said that yesterday's
failed street demonstration organized by the opposition
Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) was an overwhelming public vote
of confidence for President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s sweeping
agenda for democracy, human rights and reform.
In comments made to the media, Shareef said:
"Not even 400 people turned up, and most of those who did were
family members, relatives and employees of senior MDP officials.
Normally there would be a crowd of onlookers, but they stayed
away too. The whole thing ended in disappointment and
embarrassment for the MDP. The Police took no action. The crowd
dispersed just before sundown, after the MDP leadership realized
that they had no public support or sympathy for such direct
action tactics. "
"I sincerely hope that yesterday's failure has sent a strong
message to the MDP that the way forward is not through unlawful
action, street demonstrations, incitement to violence and
orchestrating civil disturbance. MDP must embrace the
constitutional route to reform; the Maldivian people sent a
strong message to them yesterday. MDP must display greater
political maturity and a willingness to engage in dialogue."
Commenting on MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed's court session,
scheduled for later this morning, the Chief Government Spokesman
said:
"I hope they [MDP] will not try to repeat the scenes of violence
and unrest that we witnessed during Nasheed's previous court
session. The trial is open and transparent. The Government is
committed to ensuring that Nasheed receives a free and fair
trial. The MDP must not attempt to obstruct court proceedings
and intimidate members of the judiciary."
Ends. |
