The People’s National Front (PNF) has accused the state-owned electricity provider STELCO of deliberately blocking power supply to its planned rally in Malé.
According to the party, STELCO failed to facilitate electricity arrangements for the “RESET” rally scheduled for Wednesday night at the Artificial Beach. PNF Secretary General Mohamed Maleeh Jamal said cables that had been placed at the venue were removed on Tuesday, which he described as an intentional move to disrupt the event.
Maleeh claimed the incident reflects growing anxiety within the government over PNF’s political activities. He appealed directly to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, urging him to stop what he described as petty interference in lawful political gatherings.
The PNF has also called on the Elections Commission to intervene, arguing that the party is acting in accordance with the Political Parties Act and that denying basic utilities amounts to a violation of democratic rights. Maleeh stressed that access to electricity should not be used as a political tool, noting that such actions are not unprecedented.
Despite the alleged obstruction, the party says it remains committed to holding the rally. Maleeh stated that former President Abdulla Yameen, who recently joined the PNF after leaving the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), is prepared to proceed with the event regardless of the challenges.
The “RESET” rally is expected to formally launch the PNF’s political movement against what it describes as the current government’s harmful policies and decisions.
