Fisheries and Agriculture Minister Dr. Mohamed Shainee has stated that a cessation of tourist scare tactics will benefit the country.
Dr. Shainee made the statement speaking to Miadhu regarding the bill prohibiting gathering in public places without permission from Home Ministry.
Dr. Shainee said that right to assembly was granted in all countries with certain restrictions and stipulations, so long as it did not encroach on the rights of others and did not hamper the economy and public peace.
Dr. Shainee added that tourists frequently visited Male’ and added that when they witnessed public protests their view towards the country changed considerably. He said the tourists will go back to their homes with this negative perception and will pass this message on. Dr. Shainee said this will harm the country, economy and tourism sector over the long run.
Dr. Shainee said the Government had opened platforms for the public to express their opinions.
“The Government is telling all to come forward with their concerns. We’re asking the parties to come to discussions with the Government. But they haven’t responded to this or want better things for the country. They want to take pictures of disputes, upload such content to youtube, damage the country,”
Dr. Shainee said there were significant differences between the Maldives and other countries. He said Male; was 2 km in total, home to several thousand vehicles and around two hundred thousand people. Noting that any protest or assembly will bring almost all daily activities, including commerce, to a halt. Most protests, he noted impacted the economy and businesses negatively.
Most diplomats residing in the country have noted the importance of maintaining public peace and order.
Stopping tourist scare tactics will benefit the country: Dr. Shainee
