Hundreds of opposition supporters took to the streets of Malé City on Friday evening, demanding the resignation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his government. The protest, led by opposition leader Abdulla Shahid and Maldivian Democratic Party Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, saw demonstrators marching through the capital, voicing concerns over government policies.

Security personnel and traffic police managed the protest to prevent congestion in Malé, one of the world’s most densely populated cities. Protesters alleged that the government had failed to deliver on key promises, particularly the handover of allocated social housing units.

The government facilitated the opposition rally, ensuring that police guided the protesters and provided security throughout the march. Although the administration holds full power with a supermajority in Parliament, it did not create any obstacles to the demonstration. Opposition supporters openly criticized the President and senior government officials, using harsh language and name-calling during the rally. The government stated that it encourages freedom of assembly and speech as fundamental democratic rights.

The protest comes as President Muizzu’s administration completes one year in office. While the government has yet to officially respond to the demonstration, officials have previously defended their policies, citing ongoing efforts to address national challenges.