President addresses the Majlis despite the hooliganism by MDP MPs

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed manages to address the Peoples’ Majlis in spite of protesting MPs of the former ruling party, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

After several attempts, President Dr. Waheed managed to make his opening statements to Majlis, while MDP MPs attempted to drown out his voice by banging the Constitution on the tables, banging water bottles, and rioting in front of the Speaker's Podium.

Almost all MDP MPs including Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Salih were screaming in front of the podium. The ruckus was so loud that Speaker Shahid, after several attempts to appeal to the sensibility of MDP MPs, had to suspend the Majlis three times.

MDP MP Ibrahim Rasheed “Bondaa” who spat on the President's Chair and the Speaker's Podium, after the Speaker suspended the Majlis session for the third time due to MDP antics. MP Rasheed's name was read out by the Speaker.

The Speaker also read out the names of MDP MP Riyaz and MP Alhan Fahmy. Feydhoo MP Alhan Fahmy was removed from chamber by security forces.

MDP protests on the streets turn violent as MP Alhan was removed from the Majlis Chambers. MDP protestors hurled rocks and other materials at police and injured several Police officers.

It is reported that 8 Police Officers and 1 private individual were injured in MDP violence on the streets yesterday. One police officer is reported to have suffered serious injuries. The Police Integrity Commission is reported to have called upon the public not to obstruct the MPS in discharging their duties.

In his address to Majlis, President Dr. Waheed reassured the Majlis and the public that he would not give any illegal orders and that he would attempt to influence the Judiciary or any other institution which was independent under law.

President Waheed pledged rule of law, lawful government, no interference in judiciary or independent commissions.

He also stressed the importance of reasoned discussion and negotiation of issues by all political parties. He called upon all parties to cooperate and work towards national unity. He reiterated his prior statements that if an early election was agreed upon by all parties, then it would have to be enabled through constitutional amendments.