The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) branch in Vilufushi island has responded to the apprehension of one its candidates contesting for a local council seat in the constituency, and called for the allegations to be repealed.
Hussain Salaam, a candidate with a MDP ticket, was apprehended on Tuesday on drug-related case, which the party has claimed is a ‘fabrication’ aimed to damage its reputation.
MDP’s Vilufushi members called on all charges to be dropped and Salaam released immediately.
The statement further said that the politicized charges are indicative of diminishing democratic values and deemed the act uncivilized.
The island council’s current president, Hussein Jabeen, who is also contesting the local council elections, slated for May 6th, is facing similar charges, the statement said. Jabeen is to contest a MDP ticket.
“We call on our rival parties to end their unjust and timid attempt to diminish support for us” the statement reads “This is a clear move to compensate for its lack of support, we urge that they return to democratic principles, and defeat us through the ballot box”.
