President Mohamed Nasheed has today participated at a rally against child abuse.

The rally was organised by several NGOs. The participants of the rally called for harsher penalties for child abusers.

Speaking at the rally, the President said that child abuse has not been prevented not entirely because of the lack of laws and regulations. Moreover, he said, we need more qualified judges able to interpret the existing laws.

The President also said there appears to be increased reports of abuse cases because the government and public are now more ready to talk about the issue. He further said, it was also because there is now freedom of expression, opportunity to discuss and speak against issues such as child abuse.

Senior government officials, some members of the People’s Majlis, members of different political parties, members of NGOs and members of the general public attended the rally.