hajam.ai
11 September 2026

Sports

The independent FIFA Ethics Committee decided on September 11, 2026, to ban former President of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) Bassam Adeel Jaleel from all football-related activities for life and fine him CHF 1,000,000 (approximately USD 1.23 million) in connection with the misuse of FIFA COVID-19 Relief Plan funds for personal benefit. In addition, club coaches and captains have shared their perspectives and hopes for the upcoming Dhivehi Premier League 2026 season in preparation for the competition.

On 11 September 2026, world football's governing body (FIFA) Ethics Committee decided to ban former Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Bassam Adeel Jaleel from all football-related activities for life and fine him approximately 1.2 million US dollars (1 million Swiss Francs). FIFA took this action after he was found guilty of embezzling and misappropriating for personal gain funds provided by FIFA as relief aid during COVID-19. Additionally, FIFA decided on the same day to suspend former FAM Finance Department head Mohamed Aqeel for 10 years and fine him 100,000 Swiss Francs for his involvement in the case.

The remarks of the coaches and captains of the competing clubs regarding the Dhivehi Premier League 2026 were revealed on 11 September 2026. In these meetings, the teams' coaches and captains highlighted their preparations for the league's new season and the key goals the teams wish to achieve in the tournament. In addition, they also shared their expectations regarding the fitness of the players, overcoming challenges that may be faced, and playing competitive matches. Noting that the season's competition will be strong, all teams have aimed to compete at the very top of the league with good results.

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Politics

In the PNC's internal elections, Heena Waleed was elected as the president of the party's Women's Wing and Ibrahim Abaan Abdul Latheef as the president of the Youth Wing. Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has heavily criticized the government and the administration of various state institutions. The Elections Commission has officially notified political parties not to make unsubstantiated allegations and false statements during political party activities and gatherings. Regarding the issue that arose concerning the sale of land in Hulhumalé for approximately MVR 400,000, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has not ordered to halt the transaction. The government has decided to commence the project to upgrade Malé's roads to modern standards within this year under Chinese grant assistance. Certain remarks made by Minister Ameen and MP Shujau have raised significant questions in the political arena. Mohamed Ismail stated that the most tyrannical regime in the Maldives was from 2013 to 2018.

Economy

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has stated that, in accordance with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's pledge, the minimum fish purchasing price has been set at 20 Rufiyaa per kilogram and that this price is being maintained along with cost-cutting measures. Citing MIRA statistics, the Ministry of Tourism revealed that the government has now initiated efforts to recover 97 million dollars owed to the state in resort rents and fines. Furthermore, Qatar Airways has announced its decision to increase flights from Doha to Male from 12 to 21 per week starting October 25, 2026.

Health

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced the decision to reform the Aasandha scheme and change the full free coverage previously provided to those earning more than MVR 60,000 per month to a co-pay or pre-pay system starting next October. The President also noted that the estimated approximately MVR 287 million saved annually from the state budget due to this change will be utilized equitably for the healthcare needs and essential services of lower-income individuals.