Politics
Speaking at a PNF gathering on September 4, 2026, former President Abdulla Yameen alleged that a secret revolution is underway within the People's Majlis against President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu due to discontent among members over foreign exchange and dollar policies. Protests and resentment from the opposition and the public have emerged as about 25 employees per day are being dismissed from Fenaka's atoll branches under the government's state-owned enterprise expenditure reduction policy. The section connecting Male' and Vilimale' in the Thilamale' Bridge project being constructed by India's Afcons has been joined, and more than 75 percent of the entire project is now complete. In an operation conducted by the Maldives Police Service in Gaafu Alif Atoll on September 4, two individuals were arrested with 17.7 kg of narcotics. In addition, nine Bangladeshi nationals suspected of drug trafficking were taken into police custody following a search of a guesthouse in Male' on that day.
Following a search of a guesthouse in Malé, several Bangladeshi nationals were taken into police custody along with a large quantity of narcotics on September 4, 2026. In this operation conducted by the police, substances suspected to be drugs were found inside the guesthouse, and the Bangladeshi nationals accused of being involved in trafficking and dealing the substances were arrested. While police are working to confirm the types and weight of the narcotics seized in connection with this case, they are expanding the investigation to determine if additional persons are involved in this network.
In a special operation conducted on GA. Maamendhoo on September 4, 2026, two people were taken into police custody along with a large quantity of narcotics. According to information received, the narcotics seized during this operation weighed 17.7 kilograms. Police are currently investigating further details regarding the two individuals arrested with these items seized as part of ongoing police efforts against drugs.
Members of the ruling party have strongly hit back following allegations by former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom that efforts are underway to bring about a secret revolution within the People's Majlis. Following President Yameen's allegations, pro-government members in the Majlis denied the claims, stating that they are baseless political accusations. Strongly criticizing President Yameen, the government members further stated that the Majlis majority remains solidly with the government and that there is no room for any such covert activities to take place within the parliament.
Public attention has been drawn to an emerging issue concerning allegations that employees of the State Electric Company (STELCO) and Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) are being coerced into signing up for the ruling People's National Congress (PNC). The allegations suggest that employees of the two companies are facing workplace intimidation and pressure to join a political party. However, concerns are being expressed stating that such acts violate the Employment Act and the right to freely participate in political activities guaranteed by the Constitution. It is reported that relevant authorities and the management of both companies are looking into the matters that need to be examined regarding these allegations.
On September 4, 2026, various discussions took place among the public and relevant authorities regarding the progress and pace of the Thilamalé Bridge works. A lot of attention was directed towards how rapidly the project's work is proceeding according to schedule, as well as the milestones achieved so far. Additionally, various parties engaged in discussions regarding the designated completion deadlines for the bridge and the quality of the work on that day. In this regard, views were widely exchanged regarding the progress of the project based on the latest information on how the practical works of the Thilamalé Bridge are progressing.
Former Foreign Minister and MDP President Abdulla Shahid arrived in HDh. Kulhudhuffushi on Friday, 4 September 2026, as part of a campaign tour for the presidential primary. Shahid received a very warm welcome upon arriving on the island, and campaign activities have been scheduled to meet local members and gather support. This trip is an important visit aimed at boosting support across the atolls as part of his campaign efforts to secure the party's presidential ticket for the upcoming presidential election.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, an unusually large number of police officers took to the streets and began operations. While police patrolled and deployed lines along streets in various areas, numerous measures were taken to maintain public peace and security. In connection with these activities, a large contingent of police officers is closely monitoring street conditions and working to ensure security.
A case surfaced on 4 September 2026 involving the arrest of a man named Naseer in the harbor area of Sh. Milandhoo, during which narcotics were found in his possession. Reports state that drugs were discovered when he was arrested and searched in an operation conducted by the police. Following this incident, relevant authorities are currently investigating the matter further and looking into the necessary aspects.
Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom stated on 4 September 2026 that he will eliminate all obstacles hindering the advancement and development of youth. He stated this while speaking about youth rights and providing opportunities for them. In addition, noting that youth are an important part of nation-building, Yameen gave assurance that he will work to resolve the difficulties facing their future. Therefore, he highlighted that empowering youth and securing adequate opportunities will be a priority.
Opportunities to contest positions within the High Council of the People's National Congress (PNC) were officially opened on 4 September 2026. This opportunity was opened with the aim of strengthening the party's internal governance and providing qualified members with the chance to fill vacant or elective council seats. The party has urged interested PNC members seeking these positions to submit their application forms and documentation before the specified deadline. This election is also a significant step taken toward further solidifying and advancing the party's operations.
Former Member of Parliament for the Kendhikulhudhoo constituency, Ahmed Easa, stated on 4 September 2026 that he hopes former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will contest the upcoming MDP presidential primary. Easa noted that the participation of senior party leaders is crucial to strengthening internal party democracy and conducting a competitive election, and that an experienced political figure like President Solih contesting the primary would further unite the party. In addition, noting that the MDP primary is a key opportunity to select a candidate who holds the approval and backing of all members, he expressed confidence that President Solih will seize that opportunity.
Regarding the dismissal of several employees from the Fenaka branch in Sh. Foakaidhoo, it was revealed on September 4, 2026, that people with special needs were among them. Concerns have been expressed over this issue because individuals in such special circumstances were included among the dismissed employees. Following this decision, much public attention has been drawn to the reasons why the Foakaidhoo Fenaka office decided to dismiss those employees.