Protests had flared up in capital Male’ City and outer lying islands, calling for independence and resignation of President Abdullah Yameen Abdul Gayoom.

The protests began at 4.30 pm on Friday.

The protests in Male’ City began from Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) headquarters. Five were arrested from the protests in Male’ City, but were released later on.

Speaking in the protests, MDP Deputy Leader Mohamed Shifaz said that President Yameen cannot keep up his tactics of showing aggression to the public. He added that the institutions will give the opportunity for public to protest to gain their rights.

Addu Maradhoo Constituency MP Ibrahim Shareef said the opposition will only cease their protests when the arrested MPs are released. He said the Government had no choice but to release those MPs.

The protesters had staged a sit in in front of the MDP headquarters. Police had attempted to disburse the rally but had refrained from using force like the previous times. The protesters had continued to express their feelings on the road.

Adhaalath Party Deputy Leader Ali Zahir noted that Police and Army were recipients of illegal orders. He urged all not to follow such orders.

Hithadhoo South MP Ali Nizar remarked that Police had acted differently from previous days. He assured that the joint opposition parties will always seek to secure rights of the public, well within the legal ambit.

MDP Chairperson Hassan Latheef said that with more citizens on the street asking for their rights will force Police to fall in line.

In addition to Male’ City, protests were held in islands in Gaaf Dhaal, Gaaf Ali, Addu city, attended by many.