Politics
Amid opposition outcry over the agreement to lease 500 hectares of land from the area reclaimed under the Rasmale project to a foreign company for 99 years, Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib defended the agreement at the "Ahaa" forum. Former President's Office employee Aishath Eesha Ashraf has been charged with criminal slander (qadhf) in connection with the "Aadhadhu" newspaper's documentary "Aisha," alleging that she defamed and insulted President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. As President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu departed for Singapore on an unofficial visit with his wife, opinions were expressed within the ruling party regarding PNC Congress matters and granting him a second term. In addition, former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, taking the lead, launched political activities and tours, sharply criticizing the government's policies.
Major debates have arisen in both political and public spheres regarding the Rasmale project agreement and the awarding of the work to a foreign company. Various parties are expressing concern over this issue, questioning the transparency of how the government formulated the agreement and stating that it could impact national interest and economic benefits. Furthermore, critics are calling on the relevant authorities to clarify additional information regarding the regulations followed in awarding such a mega project to a foreign entity.
The 'Ahaa' forum, held to provide an opportunity for the general public to directly question government ministers and obtain information, was conducted on 27 September 2026. In this forum, relevant ministers directly answered various questions posed by the public regarding projects and policies being implemented by various government ministries. This was a special meeting held with the objective of increasing the transparency of the government's work and providing immediate solutions and answers to the public's concerns.
On Sunday, 27 September 2026, a defamation lawsuit was filed against Eesha Ashraf. In this case, charges were brought against her in connection with allegations of speaking defamatory words that damaged another person's reputation. Following this lawsuit, relevant authorities and the judicial process have commenced looking into the case and taking necessary legal action.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his spouse Sajidha Mohamed have departed for Singapore on an unofficial trip. According to information provided by the President's Office, this is a personal, unofficial trip undertaken by the couple. However, the President's Office has not disclosed further details regarding this trip or the exact date they will return to the Maldives after concluding the visit. Following their departure for Singapore, the President's Office made an official announcement regarding the matter.
Various political figures expressed their opinions today and spoke extensively regarding granting a second term in office to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. In this regard, while government supporters highlighted his policies and the development projects being brought to the nation to emphasize the importance of a second term, opposition political parties viewed the matter from a different perspective and aimed criticism. In the debates that unfolded on this subject among senior officials of political parties and members of parliament, discussions also took place regarding the ways the nation's political arena would be shaped for the upcoming presidential election. As a result of these debates, perspectives and opinions regarding a second term in office have become increasingly prominent within the political landscape of the Maldives.
Information regarding the political activities and scheduled visits to various regions by former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom was disclosed on September 27, 2026. The primary objective of these activities is to further strengthen political work and meet closely with the public. Detailed information regarding these visits and various political programs is being planned and announced continuously.
In his speech on September 27, 2026, regarding the People's National Congress (PNC) congress, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu highlighted the importance of strengthening the party's internal governance and maintaining unity. The President stated that the congress would further consolidate the party's administrative framework and increase member involvement in delivering government policies to the people. Additionally, he emphasized that priority would be given to expanding the roles of youth and women in shaping the party's future, and he urged all members to work together in serving the people.