Minister of Home Affairs Imran Abdulla has urged the public not to conduct gatherings and political rallies that violate health and safety guidelines set in the country amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The home minister made the remarks after several individuals disregarded the guidelines of Health Protection Agency (HPA) in the protest held on August 28 by the opposition coalition, despite the surge of COVID-19 cases in the country over the last few weeks.During the rally, several individuals went against the advice of wearing face masks and measures of social distancing. HPA had also prohibited gatherings of more than 5 people in an effort to curb the spread of the virus.
Highlighting the fast rate of COVID-19 transmission in the Maldives, Home Minister Imran urged the public to adhere to instructions and advice from health authorities. He said there is a distinct difference between protecting the well-being of the people and practicing the right to freedom. He urged the public to follow what is made mandatory by the HPA.
Meanwhile, Maldives Police Service (MPS) has also stated action will be taken against individuals who violated the HPA gudelines in the rally held by the opposition coalition.