Politics
Amid criticism over the sale of a 1,250 square foot plot of land in Hulhumalé Phase 2 to Ahmed Zahir for MVR 468,750 at a rate of approximately MVR 375 per square foot, Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib defended the transaction and submitted the matter to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). The government faced significant criticism regarding dismissals for political reasons, such as the sacking of Fazla, who had played a leading role in President Muizzu's mayoral campaign. On 9 September 2026, the Ministry of Economic Development refuted allegations claiming that the Male' Commercial Port relocation project to Thilafushi was awarded to China's CHEC by turning a blind eye to India and favoring a specific country. The Housing Minister denied rumors suggesting that the newly introduced Engineering Award was going to be conferred upon President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Former President Abdulla Yameen and former President Mohamed Nasheed also voiced criticisms regarding various political issues. Preparations required for holding the ruling PNC congress have now commenced by the party. On the same day, important discussions also took place regarding development projects in Thinadhoo and press freedom.
Statements made by the Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development regarding allegations that land was sold cheaply from Hulhumalé have drawn heavy criticism from the public and various political figures. Many people have been expressing concern on social media and various platforms, claiming that there are contradictions in the information and statements released by the ministry on the matter. In this regard, questioning the procedures under which the land sales transactions were conducted, critics characterized the ministry's statement as remarks aimed at evading responsibility. Additionally, these parties are calling on the government to establish a transparent, robust system for the allocation of state land and to clarify the truth of this matter.
Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom participated in the 'Green Signal' program on September 9, 2026, and heavily criticized the current government's policies. Speaking on this program, he expressed concern and leveled criticism regarding the government's decision-making and the trajectory adopted in administering state affairs. Additionally, he raised questions about how work is being conducted across various government sectors and shared his perspectives on the current situation in detail via this program.
It has been revealed that preparations required to hold the national convention or congress of the People's National Congress (PNC), along with efforts to strengthen the party's political activities, began on September 9, 2026, and are currently underway. In this regard, it is noted that numerous efforts are being formulated and activities are being carried out across various political sectors to reinforce the party's internal governance and complete various arrangements for the upcoming congress. In addition, plans are being made to conduct various political programs to expand the party's policies and prepare for the congress through the collaboration of general members and the leadership.
Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib has stated that the circulating rumors claiming President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is receiving an engineering award are completely baseless and false. In this regard, Minister Muththalib revealed that the claims suggesting a decision has been made to confer such an award on President Muizzu are deceptive and groundless fabrications. Furthermore, he called upon relevant parties to refrain from misleading the public by spreading such false information.
The President's Office held a press conference on 9 September 2026. During this press conference, information regarding the government's key initiatives and policies was shared with journalists. Additionally, the President's Office answered various questions raised by the media concerning different sectors of the country. This conference was held with the objective of providing information to the public in a transparent manner.
The Mayor of Thinadhoo City, Saud Ali, has spoken regarding the development projects of Thinadhoo City and the concerns of the island's council. In his speech, Mayor Saud Ali highlighted the status of various ongoing and planned projects in Thinadhoo, as well as the challenges faced in carrying out these works. In addition, noting the major concerns confronting the city council, he stated that cooperation from relevant authorities is needed to further enhance services provided to the citizens and to expedite projects.
Following the dismissal of Fazla from her post by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's government, significant criticism has been directed at the government's political decisions. While concern is being voiced in the political arena and among the public regarding this decision, many are questioning the principles and direction of the various political decisions being made by the government. Furthermore, this move has intensified criticism towards the policies adopted in appointing and dismissing individuals from political posts. However, official government institutions have not yet disclosed any further details regarding these criticisms or the reason for Fazla's dismissal.
Relevant authorities announced on September 9, 2026, that rumors claiming the work of Malé Commercial Port has been contracted to a Chinese company are baseless and false. The authority stated that no decision has been made to award any such project to a Chinese company, and that work related to the port is proceeding in accordance with established regulations. Furthermore, an appeal was made not to attempt to create unrest among the public by spreading false information, and to rely on authentic information released by official authorities.
On September 9, 2026, former President Mohamed Nasheed made important statements regarding the political activities and policies of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), leveling serious criticisms. Among the matters he highlighted were pointing out shortcomings observed in the party's political sphere and governance, and calling for their rectification. Additionally, expressing concern over the MDP's current direction and the political decisions being made by the party, he emphasized in his remarks the importance of upholding the party's foundational principles. Nasheed's statements have sparked major debates in the political arena and among party members.
On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, Fiyaz made significant remarks regarding the journalists of Adhadhu news. In this meeting or statement, Fiyaz shed light on the work of Adhadhu's journalists and matters related to them. Furthermore, his remarks included points highlighted regarding press freedom and the role of journalists.