againfeb19thflopagainasusual
News Flash
MDP protest fizzles out as people refuse to turn up
Male’, Maldives, 19th February 2006, 11.30am (olhuala.com) - The MDP's planned 'protest' has been called off in another humiliating turn of events due to a lack of numbers. The protest had been formally called for last night in a statement by the MDP national council and had been communicated over the internet and via sms messaging and phone calls.
Only around 20 people turned up with none of the MDP's leaders making an appearance. Frantic sms messages had ensued; one sent by MDP Spokesman Hamid Abdul Ghafoor, seen by olhuala.com, included: "...you will have the full backing of the party..." and "...we can only make this work with your presence..." However, these failed to have any effect.
Far more worryingly, the Majilis session was again called off due to a lack of quorum with less than 50% turning up from each party. Serious questions now arise about the competence of the Members who agreed rules which state that even normal debates, and not only voting, require a quorum to go ahead.
Male’, Maldives, 19th February 2006, 10.00am (olhuala.com) – A group of 20-odd MDP supporters have gathered outside the Majilis Building in direct defiance of the new Majilis rules which prohibit loitering on the streets around the building. Some are holding placards and there is one banner calling for the appointed members in the house to be ejected.
Earlier this morning, the MDP had provided free breakfast at the Customs Canteen to entice people to join in. The MDP’s previous attempts at raising numbers have had mixed results. Yesterday the MDP released a formal statement asking its members to defy Majilis regulations and gather at the Majilis doorstep.
It is believed the Special Majilis session is currently underway. Earlier, MDP leader Ibrahim Ismail had asked MDP members to “seek out DRP members wherever they are and drag them to the Majilis, if that is what is required.” He made this call at the MDP rally at Imaadhudhdheen School three nights ago.
No violence has so far been reported although there is some unrest among the gathered group.
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