Politics
In the PNC internal election, Minister Heena Waleed was elected unopposed as President of the Women's Wing, and Ibrahim Abaan Abdulla Latheef as President of the Youth Wing. Allegations have surfaced that cargo department employees of MPL are being summoned to the "Bandharu Maalan" and forced to fill out forms to join the ruling PNC. While former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom attended a PNF gathering, opposition political leader Mauroof directed strong criticisms at President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's policies. Former Minister Ali Waheed also participated in the 'Baabu' program and spoke about the political situation. Police have instructed vehicles to be removed from the streets in the area encompassing Republic Square and Izzudheen Jetty in connection with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's official visit to the Maldives. In Shaviyani Milandhoo, three individuals who tested positive for drugs were arrested and remanded in custody for five days after speeding on a motorcycle and attempting to evade police. The Criminal Court has sentenced a Maldivian man to 20 years in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing a child within his family.
Serious allegations have surfaced claiming that employees of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) are being forced to sign up for the ruling People's National Congress (PNC). In this issue, while it is alleged that political influence is being exerted over the company's employees to pressure them into joining the party, concerns have arisen regarding the matter. However, many are raising their voices, stating that compelling employees of state-owned companies to join a specific political party is unacceptable legally and ethically. Following these allegations, it is not yet clear whether relevant authorities or the management of MPL have officially denied this or what action will be taken regarding it.
On Sunday, 13 September 2026, former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom attended a special meeting held at the front office of the People's National Front (PNF). He participated in this meeting to discuss the party's progress and the conduct of political activities with senior party leadership and general members. Additionally, this meeting was an important gathering held at the party's front office to strengthen the PNF's political work and plan upcoming activities.
On Sunday, 13 September 2026, former Tourism Minister Ali Waheed took part and spoke on the 'Baabu' program. Participating in the program, he spoke and shared his views on various political and national issues. He also shed light on important topics related to the country's current situation and shared information during the program.
On Sunday, 13 September 2026, individuals who were speeding on motorcycles in Sh. Milandhoo were taken into police custody and subsequently arrested after testing positive for drugs. After stopping and inspecting them over the issue of riding motorcycles at dangerous speeds threatening public safety, it was confirmed that they were under the influence of drugs. Police are investigating the arrested individuals regarding matters of endangering road traffic safety and drug abuse related to the incident. Efforts to take necessary legal action to prevent such dangerous acts are currently underway.
In order to strengthen the internal governance and expand the activities of the People's National Congress (PNC), the election of the presidents of the party's Women's Wing and Youth Wing was held on 13 September 2026. This election was an important poll held with the aim of implementing the party's policies, further strengthening the role of women and youth in the political arena, and providing leadership opportunities. A large number of the party's members participated in this election, and capable candidates were elected according to democratic principles to lead the two wings. With these newly elected leaders for a new term, the party aims to further accelerate youth and women's activities and expand the party's work at the national level.
The Criminal Court has sentenced a Maldivian man to 20 years in prison after he was found guilty of committing a sexual act with a child belonging to his own family. The individual convicted and sentenced to prison in this case is a man named Hussain Shirwan, and the state brought this charge against him under the Special Provisions Act on Dealing with Child Sexual Abuse Offenders. The ruling delivered by the court stated that it had been proven in court beyond a reasonable doubt that he committed a sexual act with a child who is a family member, under Article 15 (a) of that Act. Therefore, in accordance with the procedures prescribed by law for serious crimes of this nature, he was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment.
On 13 September 2026, Maumoor, a senior opposition figure, directed strong criticism at the policies and decisions of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's government. He noted that in the government's undertakings, priority given to political expedience had increased instead of responding to the public's concerns. Furthermore, claiming that President Muizzu's administration was neglecting to fulfill its pledges to resolve crucial economic and social issues facing the country, Maumoor called for the government to be held accountable. The political opposition aimed such harsh criticism at a time when questions were also being raised among the general public regarding the government's decisions.
In connection with the official visit of the Prime Minister of Malaysia to the Maldives, relevant authorities have ordered the removal of vehicles parked in certain areas of the capital city, Malé, to strengthen security. To ensure safety and security along the routes traveled by the Prime Minister and areas designated for activities related to the visit, orders were given to clear vehicles from these areas before the stipulated time. Additionally, officials stated that in order to cooperate with public transport and security arrangements, people should comply with the notice, and that vehicles parked against the regulations will be towed.