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Maldives Construction Minister accuses President of theft Dhon Hassan (pseudonym) Dhivehi Observer 6 August 2004 translated by Maldives Culture Construction minister Umar Zahir attended a public party on Friday night and accused President Gayyoom of all sorts of things. Umar Zahir said the president was a major thief, and the minister admitted he now deeply hates Gayyoom. What has happened to prompt Umar Zahir's condemnation? At Lonu Ziyaaraiykolhu in Male', a new wave of public meetings has begun. Frustrated by a ban on the provision of venues for discussion about government reform, people have begun to hold public forums near the tetrapods, thin failee gaa, that make up the capital's protective seawall. At tonight's gathering, over 400 people took part, discussing politics and other issues of public concern. Participants enjoyed a feast of rice and there was a successful exchange of ideas. The Dhivehi name for the seawall tetrapods translates literally as 'three-legged rock'. This name is technically not accurate because the tetrapod actually has four legs. However, the Dhivehi name gives it three, and in this article these three legs are being compared to the three main powers of government.   MC editors. As soon the 19 July meeting of the Special Majlis began, the rights granted under section 25 – 'right to freedom of expression', and section 26 – 'freedom of assembly' were taken away from the people in contravention of the constitution. Under section 12 of the constitution, Gayyoom is committing treason. Gayyoom's regime has prohibited people from assembling and expressing their thoughts and ideas. Maldivians should not need to ask for permission in writing, but fear of punishment has forced people to write letters to the government for access to public buildings for meetings. The government's response has been to refuse permission. The only way of taking away a power and right granted by the constitution, is to change the constitution. For malicious and cruel reasons, Gayyoom is trying to control our minds. His belief that he can shut our mouths is a clear indication of his unsuitability as a leader.     Food for thought and discussion at the capital's beach There were also young and ambitious NSS officers among the crowd, spying on the evening's activities. When promotion day arrives, Gayyoom's rule may have ended. The NSS need to remember that any spying should be to protect people's rights. Spying for Gayyoom is a betrayal of the constitution of the country. Now all are wondering, 'How is this going to end?' It is clear is that Gayyoom cannot take all these people to prison and torture them at the 'range' and beat them to death. He dare not! top

Related articles and links Maafushi prisoners launch hunger strike after Umar Zahir's promise comes to nothing 11 Jan 2004 Separation of Powers in Maldives Friends of Maldives doc file 48k

Maldives Culture is an independent internet magazine of Maldive cultural issues.
Editors and translators: Michael O'Shea and Fareesha Abdulla, Australia
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