Protests disrupting services on Maafaru: Home Ministry
19 Jan 2013, 4:51 PM
Minivan News
The Ministry of Home Affairs “expressed concern” about the prevention of islanders’ basic needs being met on the island of Maafaru in Noonu Atoll, with ongoing protests having resulted in the island council office, health center, and school closings, local media reported.
A statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs Thursday (January 17) stated the provision of these services is obligated under the constitution and subsequent laws, as well as that the obstruction of these [fundamental human] rights is equivalent to denying citizens of their rights.
Therefore, necessary legal actions will be taken to restore the provision of these services without discrimination to all citizens, according to Sun Online.
The ministry added that planned government projects to provide basic services are based on income received by the state.
The government also said they “will always welcome peaceful assembly” since this right is guaranteed in the Maldivian constitution, according to local media.
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