Politics
Under Presidential Decree No. 14/2026, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu established a new state-owned company named "Maldives Awqaf Investments Limited" on 12 September 2026 to develop waqf properties and maintain mosques. Journalists and opposition parties have expressed concern that President Dr. Muizzu has not held a press conference since assuming office. Opposition parties also directed criticism at the government regarding vessels colliding with the pillars of the Sinamalé Bridge and the use of drones for security purposes. In the case involving defecation in the ablution area of Masjid al-Furqan, Naushad Moosa, 32, of G. Malehiyyaa 2, was arrested, and the court remanded him in custody for 15 days. Saud Hussain responded to rumours claiming that he had lost his seat as Mayor of Thinadhoo City. The PG leader of PNC, Mohamed Ismail, spoke critically about the way affairs were conducted during former President Abdulla Yameen's administration. Former Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem stated that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) lacks the jurisdiction to give legal advice on land sale issues. A court sentenced an individual convicted of theft to a fine of 1.2 million Rufiyaa. Chief Justice Ahmed Muthasim Adnan spoke regarding the new regulations formulated to strengthen the work of Magistrate Courts.
The government has established a new company to strengthen and manage the administration of Waqf properties and mosques in the Maldives. The main objective of forming this company is to manage Waqf buildings and similar resources in a sustainable manner, and to arrange systems so that the benefits are maximized for social causes. Additionally, the maintenance and sanitation of mosques will be carried out with special priority under the umbrella of this new company. It is anticipated that this step will bring further progress to the development and maintenance of properties designated for Islamic affairs.
On 12 September 2026, the opposition expressed major concerns regarding the collisions of boats with the Sinamalé Bridge and issues surrounding military drones. The opposition noted that repeated incidents of vessels hitting the bridge pillars raise questions about navigation safety and security in the area. In addition, the opposition raised questions and voiced concern to the government regarding the operations and conditions of the drones being used in the Maldives' security framework. Furthermore, they called on the government to take robust measures and provide clarity in such matters to ensure the safety of the public and critical national infrastructure.
Political figures and journalists have criticized President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, stating that he does not hold press conferences. Critics on this matter emphasize that holding press conferences with the president's direct participation to ask questions and clarify information regarding government affairs is essential for transparent governance. However, in response to these criticisms, the government states that efforts to disseminate information to the public and the media through various platforms and ministers continue without interruption. Official bodies also state that the government is always ready to answer journalists' questions and work closely with the media.
On September 12, 2026, the police arrested a person in connection with an incident of defecation inside Masjid al-Furqan (Furqan Mosque) in Malé. Following this uncivilized and alarming act that violated the sanctity of the mosque, the police initiated an investigation, arrested the suspect, and began inquiries. While relevant authorities are paying special attention to halting such actions that violate religious and social standards, the police are currently investigating further matters surrounding this incident.
On September 12, 2026, Saud spoke regarding the mayoral seat of Thinadhoo City. In this regard, he shed light on the position of Thinadhoo mayor and important matters related to the administration of the city, expressing his perspective on the role of the council and the mayor. Saud's remarks also highlighted the duties of the seat and the efforts required of the mayor for the development of Thinadhoo City and matters concerning its citizens.
Shameem revealed on September 12, 2026, that advice could not be provided to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on the land sale issue. It is reported that Shameem noted that legal or procedural advice could not be offered on the matters requested by the ACC in connection with this issue. This was noted as a decision made during the process of seeking advice for the ACC's work on ongoing matters related to the sale of land.
On 12 September 2026, details of Mohamed Ismail's remarks regarding the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, along with an associated report, were disclosed. This information highlights key political events and decisions that occurred during President Yameen's presidency, outlining Mohamed Ismail's experiences and perspectives. The report also notes important points relating to various developments during that administration and shares the occurrences that unfolded within the political arena. Furthermore, these statements and the report drew significant attention from the political sphere on that day.
On 12 September 2026, a conviction was made in a theft case ordering a fine of 1.2 million Rufiyaa. The sentence determined upon convicting the individual involved is a fine set within legal frameworks, taking into account the magnitude of the act of theft. In addition, an order was made to pay the full amount to the state within a designated timeframe. The primary objective of such stern measures is to reduce criminal offenses such as theft and property damage in society, and to deter individuals from such actions.
On September 12, 2026, the Chief Justice of the Maldives made important remarks regarding the new regulations for Magistrate Courts. In this regard, he highlighted the role of these new regulations in further strengthening the work of the judiciary and elevating the quality of services provided to the public by Magistrate Courts across the atolls. In addition, he noted that these regulations will pave the way to expedite court procedures and shape the processes of establishing justice in line with modern principles.