Malé City witnessed tense clashes on Friday evening as thousands of opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) supporters took to the streets, demanding the resignation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

According to the Maldives Police Service, the MDP obstructed police duties during the protest after defying the agreed march route. Police said the opposition had initially committed to a designated path, but deviated from it once the protest began. Officers intervened to block demonstrators from leaving Artificial Beach and heading towards Majeedhee Magu, triggering confrontations.

Pepper spray was used by police to disperse parts of the crowd, while protesters hurled objects at officers in response.

In a statement, police said protesters had been repeatedly warned against proceeding unlawfully but refused to comply. “Legal action will be taken against those responsible for obstructing police duty,” the statement read.

When police blocked the protesters, demonstrators continued waving flags and chanting slogans demanding President Muizzu’s resignation. The MDP finally concluded the rally at midnight.

Police have urged all parties to refrain from interfering with law enforcement duties as tensions between the government and opposition continue to escalate.