Politics

A case has been filed in the Supreme Court of the Maldives against the Ras Malé project. The case was submitted to the court stating that there are legal and procedural concerns in carrying out the project, and requesting an injunction to halt these matters and ensure compliance with the law. While the Supreme Court has not yet made a specific decision regarding this case, it is expected that the court will determine whether to accept the case. Following the submission of such a case to the apex court, widespread public attention has been drawn to the legal validity of this project.

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan spoke on 28 September 2026 regarding the measures being taken by the government to curb gangs and crime. Minister Ihusaan disclosed details of the special joint efforts being carried out by law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of the community, as well as the robust measures being taken to stop criminal gangs. He also provided assurances that the government's efforts to uphold the rule of law and eradicate the environment of crime will continue without interruption.

Regarding the government's Ras Malé project, Adhaalath Party President Sheikh Imran Abdulla spoke on 28 September 2026, directing serious criticisms. In his remarks, he expressed concern over the way the project is being executed, questioning whether things are proceeding in the fairest and most beneficial manner for the citizens. Furthermore, Sheikh Imran called for transparent disclosure of information regarding various aspects within the project and for prioritizing the state's interests to the fullest. With these criticisms, the debates taking place in the political arena regarding the Ras Malé project have garnered additional attention.

Speaking regarding the Ras Malé project, Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib highlighted the importance of the project and defended it. In this regard, the minister stated that the Ras Malé project is an important project carried out by the government to find a permanent solution to the housing issue faced by the citizens. Addressing the ongoing discourse surrounding the project, the minister also gave assurance that the works of the Ras Malé project will proceed successfully in accordance with the set targets.

On Monday, September 28, 2026, relevant authorities arrested two Nepalese nationals who attempted to smuggle illicit narcotics into the Maldives via Velana International Airport (VIA). When intercepted and searched, a large quantity of narcotics was reportedly found in their possession. Following their arrest in connection with the case, the two Nepalese individuals were taken into police custody, while relevant authorities are working to determine the type and weight of the drugs they attempted to traffic into the country. It is also reported that the relevant department of the police is further investigating the matter.

On September 28, 2026, former Vice President Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed spoke out in criticism against the government's ongoing Rasmale project. In his remarks, he expressed concern over the way the project is being carried out and highlighted issues surrounding it. Although the Rasmale project is a major development initiative for the Maldives, Dr. Jameel aimed criticism by stating points of concern from both political and technical perspectives.

Regarding the Rasmale project, former Member of Parliament Ali Hussain and MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail have expressed major concerns and called on the government to disclose the project's agreement to the public. They noted that such a mega project involving significant state expenditure and valuable land must be conducted in a transparent manner and through arrangements that allow the public to know the detailed information. Furthermore, they questioned the financial and economic damages that this agreement could cause to the state and future generations, stating that it is imperative to disclose the full documentation of the agreement.

On Monday, September 28, 2026, a court hearing was held in connection with a case involving former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. Following the convening of this hearing, his supporters and political associates carried out various political activities in the area surrounding the court and at party offices. During these activities, supporters raised their voices and expressed their feelings to demand political freedom and to ensure a fair trial regarding the allegations against Yameen. Political parties and the general public paid significant attention to the political events that unfolded surrounding this hearing.

Due to concerns regarding the mega project decided to be carried out by the government in Rasmale, Jamiyyath Salaf and the Adhaalath Party commenced work on September 28, 2026, to conduct a special study on the matter. The organization stated that efforts to study and clarify detailed information regarding the project by meeting with relevant government institutions and through other means are currently underway. At a time when significant debate has arisen among the public and political figures regarding the allocation of land to foreign companies and financial agreements under the Rasmale project, it has been decided that the concerns and findings will be shared with the public upon completion of this study.

On Monday, September 28, 2026, the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology shared important information regarding the special counter-narcotics operations carried out by the government. In this regard, the minister revealed details of the joint operations conducted across various regions of the Maldives by law enforcement agencies, as well as updates on the robust measures being taken to prevent the trafficking of drugs. Furthermore, within this information, the minister also gave assurances that such efforts conducted to save the community from the scourge of drugs and establish a safe environment will continue vigorously and without interruption.

On 28 September 2026, opinions were expressed regarding the political thinking and policies of the opposition. In this regard, light was shed on the mindset of the opposition and their perspectives on issues, and discussions were held on the impact these viewpoints would have on the political arena. Furthermore, the importance of evaluating the direction and thinking adopted by the opposition on various national matters was highlighted in this commentary. In addition, it was stated in these remarks that the role of the opposition and their ideology within a democratic system are vital for political stability and development.

On 28 September 2026, it was decided to further toughen the measures and penalties imposed on those driving land vehicles while intoxicated. This decision is an important step taken to ensure road safety and security, and to prevent dangerous accidents caused by driving under the influence. Accordingly, these changes include increasing the fines imposed on intoxicated drivers, extending the period of license revocation, and stiffening other legal punishments. The main objective of this is to protect the lives and property of all road users and maintain road safety.

The Mayor of Male' City, Adam Azim, has departed on an official trip to Ecuador. This visit, which commenced on Monday, September 28, 2026, is an official trip to participate in matters related to the work of the Male' City Council. During this trip, he is scheduled to attend key meetings held in Ecuador and engage in discussions concerning city governance and various development sectors. It is learned that the Mayor will return to the Maldives shortly after concluding this visit.

On Monday, September 28, 2026, an expatriate was arrested and remanded in connection with a case where a woman walking on the street was pushed down and robbed. In this incident, the expatriate assaulted the woman, knocked her to the ground, and attempted to rob the belongings in her hands. In connection with this case, the relevant authorities arrested the expatriate, and when brought before the court for a decision regarding his detention, an order was issued to keep him in custody. The police are now continuing to investigate this case further and look into necessary matters.

The Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Fayyaz Ismail, made important remarks on 28 September 2026 regarding the party's transformative policy on amending the Constitution of the Maldives. In this regard, he highlighted that bringing essential reforms to the system of governance and the framework of state administration is crucial for the country's stability and the strengthening of democracy. Fayyaz also stated that the constitutional amendments proposed under this policy are based on broad consultations led by the party for the benefit and interest of the people.

On 28 September 2026, a decision was made to file a defamation lawsuit against Ishaa, and efforts have commenced to submit the case to court. This case is a lawsuit filed to seek legal action concerning the dissemination of statements that harm a person's reputation and honor. It is learned that this lawsuit seeks compensation for damages incurred due to defamation, as well as a public apology. The relevant authorities are currently reviewing the necessary matters in order to proceed with the legal proceedings of this case.

Under the pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to run an open and accountable government, a new session of the ministers' "Ahaa" Forum was held, and information regarding the government's work was released on 28 September 2026. The forum, conducted jointly by the President's Office and Public Service Media (PSM), was attended by Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, and Minister of Sports Abdulla Rafiu. During this meeting, they shared the latest information regarding the work being carried out by their respective ministries, and the ministers gave detailed answers to various questions asked by the public directly from the forum venue as well as via the application.