Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has responded to Elections Commission (EC)'s decision to fine them, for allegedly calling on the people 'to gather in front of the police headquarters'.

The Commission decided to fine the party MVR 60,000, accusing it of calling on its supporters, via twitter, to gather in front of the police headquarters after a member of the party, Naeema Mohamed was summoned for questioning. The party has been given a period of seven days to make the payment.

The letter sent to the party noted that the fines comes after the party failed to stop such activities despite numerous warnings.

Following the Commission's decision, MDP's secretary general Anas Abdul Sattar denied that the party had sent out such a tweet.

"This is what happens when steps are taken without a proper investigation," said Anas.

He said that it will be better for the EC "to give out the funding to the parties," instead of imposing fines without "a thorough investigation".

Noting that the party has been given seven days to pay the fine, Anas highlighted that the parties are yet to be given the funding for the year. EC is required to disburse the funds in the first quarter of the year.

"Instead of taking strict measures against political parties, it will be better for the Elections Commission to pressure the Finance Ministry to release the state funding to the parties," added Anas.

According to the Political Parties Act, parties with 10,000 registered members are eligible for state funding, with the amount depending on the size of the party membership.