Gayyoom declares 'War on Poor' :: Maldives News :: Dhivehi Observer

Editorial

Gayyoom declares 'War on Poor'

By Editor in Chief, A. S. I. Moosa (Sappe'), 11 October 2006

Dictator Gayyoom's aggressive clampdown and attack on residents of remote islands of the Maldives is becoming more of a trend now. He obviously had no means to terrorise and control the residents of larger islands, such as the capital island Male', islands of Addu Atoll or the capital island of Huvadhoo Atoll, Thinadhoo. The reason is simple; people of these islands are fully aware of their rights and are no longer willing to bow down to the 'regime' sponsored terrorism.

In January this year we witnessed Gayyoom's terrorist attack on the poor defenceless people of Fares-Maathodaa in South Huvadhoo Atoll. His private militia, supposedly the nation's police force, used extreme force and brutality in attempting to crush the voices of dissent in the island, who were demanding the development of the island's harbour, a promise pledged decades ago by the regime. Leaked police videos and personal statements from the residents of the island drew a picture of extreme brutality and the extent of the crimes committed in that island.

Several other attacks have taken place since then across the country. Whenever the residents of an island express their feelings and demand for an end to corruption, better public services or promised infrastructure developments to their islands, they have had to endure the sufferings of calculated terror attacks by Gayyoom's militia.

It is absolutely clear from all these accounts that this aging Dictator does not intend to abide by the rule of law and humane methods to control and provide security for the people of Maldives, rather he continues to use of extreme and brutal force to safeguard his oppressive regime.

The on going attack on the tiny island of Himandhoo in Ari Atoll, which has a population of less than 500, is yet another proof of his inability to deal with social issues confronted by the people. Using the pretext of a fight orchestrated by some youths a fortnight ago, Gayyoom's terror gang are infringing on the basic rights of the people of Himandhoo, banning them from even exercising their civil an religious rights. His only purpose is to prove to the rest of the population that he is still very much in control and still above the law.

Gayyoom has openly declared War on Poor and we have every right to defend ourselves.