First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has condemned the assault on opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) activist Mariyam Zubair, who was attacked while riding a motorbike in Malé on Sunday night. Two masked individuals splashed black oil on her before fleeing the scene.

In a statement on X, the First Lady denounced the attack, stating that such acts of violence and harassment are unacceptable. She urged everyone to avoid escalating political tensions and to allow the judicial process to take its course.

The incident comes amid heightened political friction following the First Lady’s announcement of a civil suit against MDP, its chairman Fayyaz Ismail, and Mariyam Zubair. The lawsuit concerns remarks made during an MDP rally, in which Zubair accused the First Family’s 16-year-old son of influencing government policies.

Earlier, the First Lady, through her legal counsel Uza Azima Shukoor, issued a statement rejecting the allegations, calling them politically motivated. She emphasized the need for greater accountability and urged all parties to respect the dignity and rights of children.

Authorities have yet to make any arrests in connection with the attack on Zubair, and police are investigating the incident.