Politics
On 20 September 2026, as the PNC formed its campaign team for the 2028 presidential election, the party announced that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu will enter the race with a shocking manifesto. On the same day, former Vice President Faisal Naseem met former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at his office and held a one-hour discussion regarding contesting the MDP presidential primary. The Anti-Corruption Commission sent cases to the PG Office requesting prosecution against former CEO Mohamed Junaid over MPL's purchase of 18 air conditioners worth 1.08 million Rufiyaa, as well as against Thinadhoo councilors over a land lease issue. Former President's Office employee Aishath Eesha Ashraf revealed that a cabinet minister called and threatened her prior to the release of the documentary "Aisha," though she did not disclose the minister's name. Additionally, the issue of appointing political directors to HDh. Hirimaradhoo and former President Abdulla Yameen's remarks regarding MMPRC were also highlighted on this day. A senior officer of the Maldives Police completed a specialized training program with the US FBI. Furthermore, the Commissioner General of Customs urged that even if one thinks of doing something wrong while in uniform, they should immediately resign.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Faisal Naseem, who served as Vice President during his administration, met on Sunday, September 20, 2026, and held important political discussions regarding the MDP's presidential primary. While former Vice President Faisal Naseem approached former President Solih with interest in securing the MDP presidential ticket for the upcoming presidential election, it is learned that Solih is considering endorsing Faisal in the MDP primary. However, neither President Solih nor Faisal Naseem has officially commented on this meeting and the discussions so far. With this meeting, the competition and excitement surrounding MDP's internal primary have now intensified significantly.
An issue surfaced on 20 September 2026 regarding the appointment of two political directors by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, stationed to serve in HDh. Hirimaradhoo, an island designated as uninhabited. Those appointed to these posts are Aishath Juvairiya of Aahiyaa, Hirimaradhoo, and Juvairiya Usman of Kaneerumaage, with both set to receive 20,000 Rufiyaa per month as salary and allowances. Although these appointments were communicated via letters signed by Youth Minister Abdulla Rafiu and sent to the HDh. Hanimaadhoo Council, significant public criticism has emerged over arranging such political positions for an uninhabited island.
At a meeting held at the People's National Front (PNF) office on Sunday, 20 September 2026, former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom made significant remarks shedding light on the massive MMPRC corruption scandal. Speaking at the meeting, he shaped his discourse by questioning the disclosure of truths surrounding the case, what has been done regarding the graft so far, and the direction of the investigations. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of relevant state institutions taking action justly in this matter and examined the details of how the events unfolded in his speech. Senior party officials and supporters attended the meeting, paying close attention to the remarks made by Yameen on the corruption scandal.
A decision was made on 20 September 2026 to prosecute Mohamed Junaid, the former CEO of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), in connection with transactions allegedly carried out in purchasing air conditioners for the company. In this case, charges are being pressed against him on allegations of using his official position and acting in a manner facilitating corruption during the procurement process of the AC units required for MPL. With relevant state institutions deciding to press charges to present the matter to court after investigating the case, preparations are currently underway to proceed with the trial.
Following the successful conclusion of the People's National Congress (PNC) National Congress, Chairperson of PNC and Speaker of the People's Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdulla stated that the party's campaign team for the 2028 presidential election has now been formed. Speaking at a meeting held at the party office, Abdul Raheem stated that the party is now fully prepared to begin preparations for the 2028 election and called upon members to proceed with campaign activities without any delay. He also highlighted that if they work with the unity and enthusiasm displayed by participants at the congress, he has full confidence that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu can easily win the 2028 presidential election.
Ali Waheed (Jabir) stated that the President will contest the 2028 presidential election with a powerful manifesto that will shock everyone. Speaking about the political landscape of the upcoming presidential election, he noted that the policies and manifesto to be announced by the President will be unique, bringing hope to the people while causing great astonishment among political rivals. Furthermore, he stated that the manifesto would bring significant changes to the competitive dynamics of the 2028 election.
A senior officer of the Maldives Police Service has successfully completed a special training program conducted by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Concluded on September 20, 2026, this important training was a program aimed at policing leadership, modern criminal investigation skills, and further elevating the standards of law enforcement. The completion of such an international-level training by a senior Maldivian police officer represents significant progress in increasing the institution's capacity and improving the quality of its service.
On September 20, 2026, an outpouring of praise and support for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was observed across various social media platforms. In this context, a large number of citizens expressed their sentiments on social media in support of his efforts for the benefit of the nation and the people, as well as the important decisions he continues to make. In addition, social media users conveyed words of praise for the robust principles he upholds in implementing government policies. These activities demonstrate the growing public confidence and enthusiasm surrounding President Dr. Muizzu's leadership across social media platforms.
On September 20, 2026, Zariyandhu noted that the fear of losing the government due to potential loss of political power has now become greater than the harm caused to the nation. He stated that the priority given to maintaining ruling powers has increased, while attention to the national interest and potential damages to the country is diminishing. In addition, expressing concern over the adverse impacts on national stability and development resulting from decisions made for political gain, he called for prioritizing the safety of the nation and the welfare of the people over defending the regime.
On September 20, 2026, it was decided to press charges against the Mayor and Councilors of Thinadhoo City, and relevant authorities have initiated proceedings on the matter. Work is underway to forward the case to the judicial process to take necessary legal action regarding allegations made against the council's leadership. With the decision to bring charges over issues noted within the council's responsibilities and governance system, this marks a significant legal step initiated regarding the administrative operation of the Thinadhoo City Council. It is anticipated that relevant institutions will continue to disclose further details regarding the investigation and court proceedings of the case.
On Sunday, September 20, 2026, significant discussions took place in the political arena regarding the sincerity of members of the People's National Congress (PNC). In this regard, these discussions highlighted the solidarity shown by members in the party's internal administration and political activities, as well as the importance of loyalty to the party's goals. Furthermore, broad views were exchanged regarding the sincere efforts that members must demonstrate in prioritizing the national interest and implementing party policies. In addition, it was noted during these talks that the sincere cooperation of all members will be required to maintain and strengthen the party's ranks in the future.
An issue surfaced on September 20, 2026, alleging that a government minister issued a threat prior to the release of the documentary "Aisha". It is alleged in this matter that a minister exerted influence and issued threats in order to stop the release of the documentary or in connection with issues included in it. Following this, significant concerns have arisen among relevant parties and the public, with various parties calling for the matter to be reviewed and investigated. In connection with this incident, questions have been raised alleging that senior state officials are obstructing journalism and freedom of expression.
The Commissioner General (CG) has advised that even if one contemplates committing a wrongful act or violating regulations while in uniform, they should first submit their letter of resignation. The CG gave this instruction highlighting the importance of maintaining the dignity and honor of the uniformed institution, and to emphasize keeping the ethics and conduct of employees at the highest standard. Furthermore, a reminder was given not to commit any act that would demean the sanctity of the uniform, and to serve while respecting the responsibilities and duties of the position.