Demonstration over escalating price of commodities and services initiated

Demonstration over the escalating price of commodities and services has been initiated yesterday night at 21:00 hrs.

The demonstrations organised by many of the youth and the public, imitating the demonstrations held in Egypt at the Tahrir Square, was held over the growing concerns and worries among the population over the escalating price of commodities and services.

Participants of the demonstrations strongly criticized the government over the raise of the price of goods said that it was the result from the decision of the Government on 10 April to keep the exchange rate of Maldives Rufiya within a band of fluctuation of 20 percent around the fixed exchange rate of Rf. 12.85 per US dollar, with the current cost of US dollars increased to Rf 15.42. 

The demonstrators said that cost of commodities has increased significantly, as well as the cost of many services. They said that students abroad and those who are going for medical treatment abroad are also sharing a great deal of burden as a result.

Politicians and the youth called for the resignation of President Mohamed Nasheed for failed economic policies and unfulfilled presidential vows.

Members of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Z-DRP, members of Jumhooree Party (JP) and some activists of ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) participated in the demonstrations.

After several warnings from the Police, Riot-gear clad police armed with batons and shields, broke up the demonstration by the use of excessive force. Dozens of canisters of teargas was also hurled at the crowd.

Several were arrested and scores injured. A number of members of parliament who participated in the demonstration condemned last night’s brutal crushing by the police.