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Rights in Paradise

by Ali Rasheed in the Maldives

We have been hearing many stories about the Maldives as of late. For many the beautiful islands of the Maldives are a real paradise on earth. This is hardly surprising.

Because of the unique natural beauty of the island together with the peace and tranquillity of one of the smallest countries in the world, it has become one of the most favourite tourist destinations. We have been basking in the warm glow of a lot of favourable publicity.

Apart from the success in tourism the Maldives has won the praise of the international community for its rapid economic and social development. During the Presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the country's social and economic indicators have soared remarkably.

Per capita income is over 2000 dollars, infant mortality has declined to one of the lowest in the region while average life span has also increased to well over 70. An open market policy has seen the growth of a vibrant trade and economic sector where the private sector's role has continued to grow. A 100% Muslim country, universal education in the English medium, emancipation of women, protection of the environment are just a few of the things that has earned Maldives a lot of respect and recognition in the global arena.

But like most countries the Maldives has never escaped the criticism of the international media and human rights organizations for its human rights practices. The Maldivian government has always discounted all the allegations. And so the fickle fingers of negative publicity come into play.

Recently there has been much undue hype and media criticism on the country's human rights practices, particularly the treatment of prisoners following deaths and many injuries in the country's main jail in the island of Maafushi. Unprecedented riots ensured in the Capital, Male' where some young people took to the streets, setting fire to buildings and vehicles. Extensive damage was done, before the police finally used tear gas and broke the mob. President Gayoom appeared on national TV and called for calm and cooperation, promising that a fair enquiry into the matter of the jail deaths will be conducted, and that those who were responsible would be punished.

Understandably, the jail deaths caused a lot of anger and concern among the people.

The jail deaths were deplored by everyone, but the peace-loving Maldivian public never wanted it to get out of hand and go down in the annals of Maldivian history as one of the most violent occurrences to date. However, the occasion was seized by a few disgruntled individuals who were practically spoiling for a fight, leaping at the first chance that came their way to disrupt the peace and harmony of our beautiful nation.

A handful of people who, sad as it is, jumped at every chance they got to discredit and dishonour the country by providing a lot of distorted information, that has been blown way out of proportion, to foreign media sources who did what they do best - sensationalise and capitalize on the whole ordeal. It is rather disappointing that they often forget the norms and ethics of responsible journalism.

For instance, one foreign paper glorified the publication of Sandhaanu, which could be best described as nothing more than a sorry excuse of a Web site set up for the futile amusements of envy-ridden individuals. While these people aspire to emulate the journalistic ventures of the West, they tend to forget that defamation and libel face even harsher penalties in these countries.

I am no self-appointed expert in journalism but does not take genius to know that when they take advantage of the concession of freedom of speech, they do it with a certain subtlety and flair - not a crude and all-out verbal thrashing directed at civilians.

And let me tell you that the real reason for such a deep-seated hatred of the government can stem from only one thing an overriding ambition to rule. But within the parameter of reality only a single and highly able person can rule.

True enough, the condition of the jail and treatment of prisoners may not be of the highest standards. The prison deaths and consequent disturbances are very serious matters indeed. But we can gain consolation from the fact that they are being fully investigated by a Presidential Commission.

It was also reported that one of the country's top police officials has been removed from post while several other servicemen have been arrested during the meticulous investigation stages. Question yourselves, surely is this not enough proof that justice is being served fairly?

People pledged their support and allegiance to President Gayoom in a splendid show of patriotic fervour. Rumour even has it that hundreds of concerned citizens handed in videotapes of the demonstration to help the police track down the rebels. And who in their right mind can overlook the steadfast and swift manner in which the President dealt with the situation without using any force to quell the riots?

The Public's support and faith in the President has been reaffirmed on Thursday when the Parliament voted unanimously in favour of Mr. Gayoom to stand for election for new term of office as President. Of course, critics are not happy that Mr. Gayoom has been in office for five terms (25 years).

They may call him a dictator, a ruthless leader, resorting to an iron fist, and accuse him of nepotism, and every other conceivable insult they can muster up. But they are in hopeless denial by now. These negative remarks certainly do not reflect the sensibilities of the masses, who are personally witness to the inimitable capacity of this man who has brought such prosperity to our nation. Maumoon is here to stay, and we would not have it any other way.

Praise for Mr. Gayoom's leadership and his achievements have not only come from the vast majority of Maldivians. Such international figures like the vice President of the World Bank has said in an interview only a few days back "The Maldives in a fine example for other developing nations. It developments are amazing. Though it is a small country, its achievements are big, policies are sustainable. They make excellent use of resources and aid given for developmental purposes. The leadership of President Gayoom has enabled these developments."

So the Maldives has faced adversity, but it is over. What is left is a fleeting memory of a not so distant past. As the languid remains of another day come to a close, we are still an amiable people. The Capital city stands proud and erect, amid an impressive plethora of lights. It is still the epitome of paradise, and that is how it shall remain.

Maldivians are one big extended family. They condemn the ulterior motives of those few disgruntled people who are intent on tarnishing the country's image. Those who want to see the truth before believing are more than welcome to visit and form your own opinion of whether it is hell or heaven on earth. I am sure you would opt for the latter.

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