MDP President Abdulla Shahid has apologized for his use of a proverb as an example during a rally where he was criticizing the government and described them as visually impaired, with his words having been viewed as mockery to those who are blind.
The Disability Council, which was formed under the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Provision of Financial Assistance Act, released a statement after Shahid had said that the government are carrying themselves as if they were "a blind person going for Isha prayers", with the council having condemned his words.
Shahid stated that his use of the proverb in describing how the government operates during the rally was not an attempt to downplay the suffering of the visually impaired. He has, however, issued an apology.
"I sincerely apologize to those who are suffering from blindness for my use of this historic proverb from the Maldivian language."
Shahid has called for the removal of such proverbs from Maldivian books and has requested as such from the relevant agencies.
The proverb that Shahid used was related to someone not being able to walk straight. Some people are defending him, with them stating that if his words were really an issue, using proverbs such as "Even if you get under the sail of a capsized boat, don't get under the power of a blind person" (Fethunu odyge riyaa dhashu viyas, kanaku ayy dhashu nuvashey) cannot be used.
The Disability Council's statement reads that during the ceremony that inaugurated the Fahi Fehi Thinadhoo City manifesto on Saturday night, Shahid had spoken in a tone and with words that had mocked those who were suffering from blindness.
The council's statement reads that disabled persons are protected constitutionally and via the international treaties that Maldives is a part of. The statement also reads that the suffering of those who are disabled should be respected and that they have a right to live independently and freely, as per the law.
