Mariya Ahmed Didi
Mariya Ahmed Didi is a member of the parliament of Maldives and a women's rights activist.[1] She earned her law degree in the United Kingdom, and became the first qualified female lawyer in Maldives.[2] She was elected to parliament as an independent but joined an opposition party in November 2005.[2] She was the chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party from March 2008 until 2011.[3][4]
In March 2006, in response to police arresting a female activist from her home late at night, Didi organized the first women's rights rally in Maldives.[1] Opponents of her efforts threw bags of oil at her and ran her motorbike off the road, but the rally went on as planned.[2] In 2007 she received an International Women of Courage Award.[5]
She was beaten and arrested in February, 2012, while protesting the controversial ouster of former President Mohamed Nasheed.[6] While in a shop, she was hit in the face and dragged away. The officer responsible was charged with assault.[7]
References
- 1 2 Honorees
- 1 2 3 Women of Courage Award Winner Spearheads Reform in Maldives | IIP Digital
- ↑ Mariya Ahmed Didi begins tenure as MDP Chairperson | Maldivian Democratic Party
- ↑ Reeko Moosa to contest MDP Chairmanship after Mariya’s resignation | Minivan News
- ↑ Maldives Royal Family Official Website: Mariya Didi
- ↑ “Police did not beat them enough,” says Majlis majority leader Ahmed Nihan
- ↑ Idhurees, Niumathullah (May 7, 2013). "Two cops charged with assault on MPs Mariya, Moosa". Haveeru Online.