Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan has urged politicians to refrain from involving the Maldives Police Service in the country’s political affairs. This appeal comes in response to some politicians targeting the police on social media, following the launch of an investigation into allegations of an attempted coup related to the Bank of Maldives’ decision to ban dollar-based transactions on debit cards and reduce credit card limits.
Minister Ihusan acknowledged that the bank's decision could have widespread impacts, but expressed concern over rival politicians holding a press conference and allegedly using 'bot' accounts on social media to incite the public to overthrow the government. He noted that opposition efforts to rally people to take to the streets and gather near the President's residence, calling for his resignation, raise serious concerns.
The minister emphasised that such actions and coincidences naturally lead to public concern, and it is the Maldives Police Service that will be responsible for addressing these concerns. He advised politicians to avoid making statements that could undermine the dignity of the police. Minister Ihusan also reassured the public that there is no need for alarm simply because an investigation has been initiated.
The Maldives Police Service has stated that politicians held a press conference on the government's financial situation while simultaneously using bot accounts on social media to call for the government's overthrow. The police emphasized that these actions could be interpreted as an attempt to illegally change a legitimate government, potentially leading to disruptions within the nation.