Maldives Update: February 12, 2007.

February has been good to President Gayoom. First, the Satyagraha conference. Then, fissures in the Maldivian Democratic Party. Finally, a friendly visit by a neighbouring head of state.

The November 10 rally exposed one faultline within the Maldivian democratic movement, and in recent days, that has led to a split.
Will Jordan, Shareef Leaves MDP, Warns Of “Anarchy & Chaos", Minivan News, February 10, 2007.
MSDP Blames MDP For Hijacking Meeting, Minivan News, February 12, 2007.
Ali Rasheed, Viewing Democracy In The Maldives, Minivan News, February 12, 2007.

Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapakse is on a three-day official tour in Maldives. He is to hold bilateral talks with Maldivian President on wide-ranging subjects including investment, tourism, fisheries, education and cultural affairs.
Lanka- Male ink several bilateral deals, Daily News, February 12, 2007.

Maldivian government is to enact the Press Freedom decree by end of this month. The media and journalist are in a dilemma regarding the benefits the decree has in store for them.

Dhoonidhoo Prison received new inmates, it was reported--those detained during the President's visit to Addu last week. At Least 55 MDP Supporters Facing Trial, Minivan News, February 12, 2007.

The Addu boat detainees are finally being charged.
AG Files Cases Against 4 ‘Namoona’ Detainees, Minivan News, February 8, 2007.

In spite of all this, change may be creeping in: HRCM Condemns Police Violence, Minivan News, February 9, 2007.

Last words:

(1) From Silver Fire's blog: Maldivian Women and Role Models, February 11, 2007.

(2) From Will Jordan's blog: The art of euphemism, February 7, 2007.