Politics.

On September 29, 2026, following Attorney General Ahmed Usham's statement that a new real estate bill would be submitted to Parliament before the commencement of practical work on the $20 billion Ras Malé project run in partnership with UAE's Eagle Hills, former President Mohamed Nasheed and Galolhu Uthuru MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) called for the agreements leasing 500 hectares of land for 99 years to be submitted to the People's Majlis. Heated debates took place inside Parliament regarding the disclosure that two members of the People's Majlis had not submitted financial declarations, as well as over members' financial declarations, including that of PNC Majority Leader Ibrahim Falah. During the trial hearing of former President Abdulla Yameen regarding the V. Aarah case, the defense requested that the testimony of Ahmed Adeeb and Abdulla Ziyath not be accepted, while prosecutor Ahmed Shafeeu requested the court to reject the defense witnesses presented by Yameen. While Abdulla Shahid won an opinion poll conducted by Sun Online for the 2028 presidential election with 58.3 percent, major legal and inter-factional disputes arose within the party regarding the MDP Congress scheduled to be held on October 1. The President of the Elections Commission spoke regarding the transition of power process, while the Minister of Homeland Security disclosed information concerning national security.

On 28 September 2026, former MP Ali Hussain filed a constitutional case at the Supreme Court seeking to annul the agreement signed with the UAE's Eagle Hills company, stating that leasing over 500 hectares of land from Rasmale for 99 years violates Articles 250 and 251 of the Constitution. Amid calls to disclose the agreement, Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib defended the project, stating that ownership of the land would remain with the Maldivian state and that foreign parties would not receive automatic visas or permanent rights. Speaking at the "Ahaa" forum, Home Minister Ali Ihusaan said that 17 drug-use dens have been closed down and that efforts are underway to amend the law to impose the death penalty and remove pardons for those who smuggle drugs above a certain quantity. Additionally, the minister revealed that 24 drug networks and 10 gang leaders are under investigation, while 26 safe houses used to recruit children into crime have been closed. Among the cases involving President Yameen, a hearing in the Fuggiri case was canceled due to the illness of the state prosecutor, while a preliminary hearing in the V. Aarah case has been scheduled for 29 September. Under the "Bodubadhalu" (Big Change) reform package submitted to the opposition MDP congress, proposals have been made to separate the roles of the head of state and head of government, and to bring changes to the manner in which parliamentary elections are held. On 28 September, police took into custody individuals attempting to smuggle drugs through Velana International Airport, as well as a foreigner involved in a robbery case. Male' City Mayor Adam Azim has departed on an official trip to Ecuador.

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.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his wife Sajidha Mohamed departed on an unofficial visit to Singapore on Saturday night, 26 September 2026. Chief Justice Ahmed Abdul Ghanee Mohamed announced that a plot of land has been allocated from a prominent area of Malé for the construction of a Supreme Court building. The opposition has directed heavy criticism at the government regarding the Ras Malé project. Preparations are now underway to resume the 'Ahaa' forum, held to provide citizens with the opportunity to question the government. Former Vice President Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed questioned and criticized the competence of Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla. Furthermore, the Mayor of Addu City has faced significant public pressure due to delays in the Addu Link Road project.

Among the major political developments on 25 September 2026, former Home Minister Umar Naseer stated that during his presidency, he would completely halt the state budget allocation of approximately 30 million Rufiyaa annually to political parties and redirect the funds towards research. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu responded to debates, assuring that employees of state-owned enterprises would not be dismissed all at once suddenly, and stating that under the Rasmalé Eagle Hills agreement, 500 hectares of land were leased long-term without being sold and without a state guarantee. The opposition alleged that employees of state-owned companies were being threatened with dismissal from their jobs if they went to welcome former President Abdulla Yameen. In addition, the government has commenced efforts to empower the 20-year national development master plan by law. The government announced that a list of basic services in the islands has been compiled and that small and medium projects will be completed by the year 2028. Work has also begun to allocate a plot of land in Malé to construct the new Supreme Court building. The government opened the opportunity for the public to submit questions to the program where ministers answer the public's inquiries. Maldivian media highlighted the case in which the Supreme Court of India ruled that not singing the national anthem for religious reasons is not a criminal offense. The Chief Justice spoke regarding the role of judges in the administration of justice. President Muizzu sent condolences on the passing of the sibling of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Political debates have intensified over the agreement to lease approximately 500 hectares of land to Eagle Hills for a period of 99 years under the Rasmalé project. A six-member Procurement Policy Board chaired by Mohamed Shifah has been reconstituted to strengthen and oversee the state procurement system. The Prosecutor General's Office revealed that the acquittal of Sun Construction and Sun Investment in the R. Fuggiri case was not appealed due to a lack of sufficient legal grounds. The political atmosphere was also marked by debates concerning MDP's corruption, a microphone being cut off during a City Council meeting, and political activities at President Yameen's front office gathering. Additionally, the Vice President attended the internationally held 'Rising Nations Gala'.

Speaking at the gathering for the 96th National Day of Saudi Arabia, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu stated that the Multinational Maritime Defense Charter would elevate relations between the two countries to a new level. Responding to opposition criticism, the President also said that the $20 billion project in Ras Malé with Abu Dhabi's Eagle Hills would significantly increase the Maldives' GDP and cause no harm to the nation. Meanwhile, Chief Operating Officer of the Maldives Pension Administration Office and former President of the ACC, Mariyam Shiuna, has been suspended from her official duties due to internal administrative issues at the office. A petition has been submitted to the People's Majlis on behalf of citizens requesting the abolition of the health insurance scheme designated for Members of Parliament. Looking at political party activities, MDP held an investment forum as part of its congress, while Sun Polls initiated a public opinion poll regarding the party's presidential primary. In a drug operation conducted in Gd. Thinadhoo, 39-year-old Fazleen Mohamed and 30-year-old Azlif Mohamed were arrested and remanded in custody along with 16.25 grams of illicit drugs. In connection with the fatal accident on Sosun Magu in Malé on September 21 that claimed the life of 26-year-old Aishath Mahidha, 21-year-old Maahu Hassan, who was driving a motorcycle without a license, was arrested and remanded in custody by the court for 15 days. Additionally, police have uncovered a major scam in which money was fraudulently taken from numerous individuals with the false promise of earning income from home.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has decided not to contest the MDP primary for the upcoming 2028 presidential election and to endorse former Vice President Faisal Naseem. The MDP has decided to hold its upcoming congress open to the public. Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom challenged President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to contest the election and questioned whether this administration is an Islamic government. On behalf of the government, President Muizzu was described as a leader who understands the sentiments of the people. A delegation of PNC Members of Parliament departed for Pakistan on an official visit. Following the case filed at the Civil Court by Thai national Kanokporn Thavongna, who was detained for deportation from the Maldives, the court dismissed the case after Immigration released her. Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom marked 20 years since he first addressed the UN General Assembly in the Dhivehi language.

An issue came to light regarding the GDh. Gadhdhoo Council unlawfully issuing more than 1,600 licences without tests, leading to the suspension of the land and sea vessel licensing services provided by the council on 21 September 2026 and the commencement of an investigation in collaboration with relevant authorities. Former President Abdulla Yameen and former Vice President Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed have directed strong political criticisms at the policies of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's government. The Criminal Court has ruled that the case regarding a 2,000 Rufiyaa scam carried out through the Instagram account 'Madadhaa' was not proven, as the prosecution failed to prove a connection between the accused and the account. The Civil Court has determined the transaction to be valid following Malé City Mayor Adam Azim gifting his share from the 871.25-square-foot plot of land at H. Maadhoofiyaa, which was in his ownership, to his wife, Aishath Nasheeda.

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.

Through a resolution unanimously passed by 1,119 delegates who attended the PNC congress, it was decided to award the 2028 presidential ticket to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu without a primary, and party chairperson Abdul Raheem Abdulla has handed over the ticket to him. While Dhonbileh Ahmed spoke regarding the MDP presidential primary, the Elections Commission faced criticism concerning PNF's membership campaign. Rasheeda Yoosuf called for an end to state funding for political parties. Although the opposition alleged attempts to sell 500 hectares of land from Rasmale' to the UAE's Eagle Hills company, President Muizzu and Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib denied the allegations, stating it was a lease. The newspaper "Adhadhu" filed a lawsuit in the Civil Court seeking to invalidate the decision barring its journalists from attending President's Office press conferences.

At a ceremony held on the night of September 18, 2026, to mark the successful conclusion of the PNC Congress, the 2028 presidential ticket was officially conferred upon President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu without a primary, following the unanimous consensus of the party's 1,119 delegates. Speaking on PNF platforms, former President Abdulla Yameen pointed to economic issues and the dollar shortage, heavily criticizing the administration by stating that a silent revolution is brewing within the government and that President Muizzu will not secure a 2028 term. On the other hand, information has surfaced that former Vice President Faisal Naseem has expressed interest in contesting the 2028 MDP presidential primary and is holding discussions with former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

On September 17, 2026, the PNC Congress unanimously passed a motion by 1,119 delegates to award the 2028 presidential ticket to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu without a primary. In this meeting, the President spoke regarding salaries and persons with disabilities. It has been revealed that Namza has resigned from the PNC Senate. PNF has submitted a case to the police requesting a criminal investigation into EC President Mohamed Shakeel over the issue of PNF members being removed from the party registry without their consent and transferred to other parties using their ID cards. Former President Mohamed Nasheed has called for the resolution of former President Abdulla Yameen's cases and the release of Shaamin. Relevant authorities have held discussions on strengthening security measures in Maldivian prisons. Police have begun 24-hour monitoring of 25 areas in Malé where gangs operate. Police have arrested a man who stole two frying pans from a shop.

At the PNC congress, elections were held for vice presidents, senior positions, and the senate, with members elected to these posts. Speaking at the congress, PNC Chairperson and Speaker of the People's Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdulla said that stability and development can only be brought to the nation if a leader remains in power for at least ten years, and that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu must be secured a second term in the 2028 presidential election. Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom criticized the practice of placing a hand over the chest while singing the national anthem. Calls for a criminal investigation against the President of the Elections Commission and allegations of First Lady Sajidha Mohamed's political influence have surfaced. Discussions to amend the law to prevent pardons for drug traffickers and details of police operations conducted to halt scams were disclosed on this day. While police have begun investigating a case involving a crocodile and a gold handgun found in an apartment in Malé, a court sentenced a youth to 17 years in prison in a drug-related case. President Dr. Muizzu highlighted the importance of state leaders being accountable to the public and noted that youth are distancing themselves from the political arena. Rumors regarding the resignation of Health Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, as well as questions directed at the government in connection with the residence Dhimyaath, were also addressed on this day.

Former Commissioner General of Customs Yoosuf Maaniu Mohamed was appointed to the post of CEO of the Greater Male' Transport and Mobility Office on 15 September 2026. The Member of Parliament for the Hulhumale' South constituency, Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, officially announced on 15 September 2026 that he will contest the MDP presidential primary. Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib revealed that long-unresolved housing issues will no longer be decided by the Ministry of Housing, and that it has been decided to forward those cases to the Office for Civil Rights operating under the Attorney General's Office. Ninety-five percent of the work on the 50 housing units project underway in Sh. Milandhoo has now been completed. Furthermore, the PNC Congress and Senate meetings have also commenced.

On September 14, 2026, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim resigned from the post of Principal Secretary to the President on Policy and Manifesto at the President's Office. Following this change, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu appointed Ahmed Habeeb to that position and assigned Mohamed Tholal to the post of Principal Secretary to the President for Tertiary Health Services. Former President Abdulla Yameen called on President Muizzu to stop pretending to be just and to investigate the cases of top government officials involved in the MMPRC corruption scandal. Former Vice President Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed strongly criticized the government, stating that President Muizzu is acting as if the entire country is his personal property. Furthermore, activities related to the PNC and MDP congresses and reform agenda efforts proceeded in the political arena on this day. While President Dr. Muizzu met with various committees, the President's Office held a press conference. Additionally, efforts to clarify the reality behind a photograph of Ali Waheed circulating in the political sphere also took place on this day.

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.

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.

In the PNC's internal elections, Heena Waleed was elected as the president of the party's Women's Wing and Ibrahim Abaan Abdul Latheef as the president of the Youth Wing. Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has heavily criticized the government and the administration of various state institutions. The Elections Commission has officially notified political parties not to make unsubstantiated allegations and false statements during political party activities and gatherings. Regarding the issue that arose concerning the sale of land in Hulhumalé for approximately MVR 400,000, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has not ordered to halt the transaction. The government has decided to commence the project to upgrade Malé's roads to modern standards within this year under Chinese grant assistance. Certain remarks made by Minister Ameen and MP Shujau have raised significant questions in the political arena. Mohamed Ismail stated that the most tyrannical regime in the Maldives was from 2013 to 2018.

On September 10, 2026, in addition to PNF holding its "Fehi Signal" gathering, significant political events took place in the political arena. The MDP National Congress, previously scheduled to be held from September 19 to 21, was decided to be postponed to October 1 to 3 due to difficulties in securing a venue in Malé. Stating that a leader needs at least two terms for the nation's stability and long-term development, PNC Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu will win a second term in 2028. Following the necessity to reschedule the Spokesperson's press conference due to the President's Office having suspended journalists from 'Adhadhu' news, the outlet filed a case at the Civil Court against the action. In addition, Minister Ameen denied statements made by Shujau. Opposition parties heavily directed criticism toward the government's economic policies. Minister Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed shared important information regarding housing projects. In addition to drug and alcohol cases, the court reached decisions regarding a jet fuel case. The Elections Commission urged all parties not to make unsubstantiated claims in political activities. Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan called on the police to provide services up to the standards desired by the public and in a manner that earns the public's trust.

Amid criticism over the sale of a 1,250 square foot plot of land in Hulhumalé Phase 2 to Ahmed Zahir for MVR 468,750 at a rate of approximately MVR 375 per square foot, Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib defended the transaction and submitted the matter to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). The government faced significant criticism regarding dismissals for political reasons, such as the sacking of Fazla, who had played a leading role in President Muizzu's mayoral campaign. On 9 September 2026, the Ministry of Economic Development refuted allegations claiming that the Male' Commercial Port relocation project to Thilafushi was awarded to China's CHEC by turning a blind eye to India and favoring a specific country. The Housing Minister denied rumors suggesting that the newly introduced Engineering Award was going to be conferred upon President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Former President Abdulla Yameen and former President Mohamed Nasheed also voiced criticisms regarding various political issues. Preparations required for holding the ruling PNC congress have now commenced by the party. On the same day, important discussions also took place regarding development projects in Thinadhoo and press freedom.

On September 8, 2026, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu sent a letter to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom sharing the Maldives' concerns regarding the UK's ongoing negotiations with Mauritius over the Chagos issue and requesting to hold official talks. Additionally, stating that the public must say no to liars, the PNC's High Council invited leaders of other parties. Following remarks by former President Abdulla Yameen claiming that the fire incident at the building housing government ministries was intentional arson, he rejected and sent back the summons chit sent by the police. Looking at other political activities, in addition to holding the PNF's "Green Signal" rally, the political atmosphere has heated up following Nasheed's remarks regarding the MDP primary and the arrest of the party's activist Shamin. After removing Abdulla Faiz from the post of MTDC Chairman, the PCB appointed Ahmed Shaheer to the post. Regarding the alleged low-cost sale of a 1,250-square-foot plot in Hulhumale' Phase 2 at a rate of MVR 375 per square foot for a total of MVR 468,750, Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib stated that it was a decision made to deliver justice to an elderly person who had been deprived of justice since 2003. Furthermore, various allegations related to STELCO and MACL employees, as well as concerns regarding press freedom, have also surfaced.

Amid issues raised concerning the denial of opportunities to certain media outlets at President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's press conference and allegations that uninhabited islands were granted to a member of his family, the President has urged not to spread false information. While former President Mohamed Nasheed has stated that he will support Fayyaz Ismail in the MDP primary, he has also met with former Vice President Faisal Naseem. Former President Abdulla Yameen has refused to accept a police summons sent on 7 September 2026 for questioning over his remarks stating that a 2024 fire incident at a government building was arson deliberately committed by a group. Police obstructed PNF members who attempted to distribute invitation cards on the street for the "Fehi Signal" gathering scheduled to be held at the Artificial Beach. Furthermore, while the police have released a video seeking suspects who stole helmets, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihsan spoke regarding upholding police integrity.

Heated verbal exchanges took place in the political arena between former President Abdulla Yameen and Speaker of the People's Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdulla. In addition to President Yameen addressing a PNF front-office meeting, preparations for the party's 'Fehi Signal' gathering are progressing rapidly. Elections Commission records confirmed that Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has left Adhaalath Party and officially signed with the ruling PNC. Along with a membership drive, preparations for the PNC Congress have now commenced. Majlis Majority Leader Ibrahim Falah faced significant criticism over remarks he made concerning support for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. A statement issued by President's Office Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu) regarding an article published by 'Dhauru' news concerning resort foreign exchange regulations was later deleted and retracted. The President's Office has drawn major criticism for excluding and denying opportunities to 'Adhadhu' news at government press conferences. The CEO of ITFC paid a courtesy call on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and held discussions. Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid spoke critically regarding the country's development affairs. Furthermore, a special interview with Thinadhoo City Mayor Saud Ali was also published in the media.

Chief Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu) confirmed on 5 September 2026 that 205 political employees, including state ministers, deputy ministers, and political directors, have been dismissed as part of measures to reduce government expenditures. The Local Government Authority (LGA) has informed councils, banning the hiring of new employees for councils without its permission. Due to 'Adhadhu' newspaper journalist Leevan Ali Naseer—who faced actions in connection with a documentary produced about President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu—refusing to leave the PSM studio, the official press conference Mundhu was set to hold was canceled. An issue has surfaced regarding the secret checking of criminal records of ordinary citizens participating in the 'Raayyithunge Adu' program held to meet President Dr. Muizzu. While verbal attacks were directed at President Abdulla Yameen during the PNC hub gathering, President Yameen also spoke criticizing the government and youth. Major debates have emerged in the political sphere following allegations that President Mohamed Nasheed was fed sorcery from the home of Fayyaz Ismail. Political figures are also expressing views regarding HDC awarding a position to Nizly and the issue where Thinadhoo City Mayor Saud Ali expressed concern over the city's status. The government has urged opposition parties to prioritize responsibility when criticizing the government.

Speaking at a PNF gathering on September 4, 2026, former President Abdulla Yameen alleged that a secret revolution is underway within the People's Majlis against President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu due to discontent among members over foreign exchange and dollar policies. Protests and resentment from the opposition and the public have emerged as about 25 employees per day are being dismissed from Fenaka's atoll branches under the government's state-owned enterprise expenditure reduction policy. The section connecting Male' and Vilimale' in the Thilamale' Bridge project being constructed by India's Afcons has been joined, and more than 75 percent of the entire project is now complete. In an operation conducted by the Maldives Police Service in Gaafu Alif Atoll on September 4, two individuals were arrested with 17.7 kg of narcotics. In addition, nine Bangladeshi nationals suspected of drug trafficking were taken into police custody following a search of a guesthouse in Male' on that day.

While President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu inspected the Thilamalé bridge works, he stated that he is resolving issues concerning parking slots issued during his mayoralty, and that he has dismissed a family political appointee over the Th. Atoll resort share issue. A STELCO HR employee has been suspended and an investigation launched after an instruction was heard telling staff to send screenshots confirming they signed up for PNC while a call was placed to a Raajje TV programme. The "Adhadhu" newspaper has lodged a complaint with the President's Office over being barred from President's Office press conferences in connection with a documentary brought about President Dr. Muizzu. Malé Mayor Adam Azim expressed concern that the council could come to a standstill if it does not receive the 10 million Rufiyaa per month from vehicle fees following amendments to the Land Transport Act and the 13 million Rufiyaa block grant. Dr. Ahmed Riyaz has been appointed to the post of Chief Statistician of the Maldives Bureau of Statistics. In addition, the political arena has heated up further with remarks made by President Yameen, verbal exchanges between former Finance Minister Ameer and PNC PG Leader Falaah, and talks that former President Nasheed will contest the MDP primary.

Under the policy of reducing state expenditure, the Local Government Authority (LGA) has instructed councils to obtain written permission prior to hiring staff. In the case of submitting false population data to obtain city status, the Prosecutor General's Office has filed two charges against Thinadhoo City Mayor Saud Ali for providing a false document and giving false information to an official authority. At the MDP rally held on September 2, 2026, former Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer stated that due to inflation, citizens have been pushed into poverty by 30 to 40 percent, and that this government is attempting to dismantle the decentralization system. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has faced criticism for mocking journalists by describing them as ancient storytellers. While an issue has surfaced regarding the lease of three islands in Th. Atoll for $864,000 to a company allegedly linked to President Muizzu's cousin Hassan Waheed, the President stated that a political employee who held shares in that company has been dismissed from their post. Allegations have also emerged that employees of state-owned enterprises are being forced to join the ruling PNC.

On September 1, 2026, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu ratified the 19th amendment to the Decentralization Act passed by the People's Majlis, which grants the Cabinet the authority to reclaim land within the jurisdiction of local councils for state development projects. This amendment, which stipulates that the Ministry of Finance must provide compensation for prior investments when the government reclaims land, has faced strong criticism from opposition MDP members and councils, who argue that it undermines the powers of the decentralization system.

In his 2026 New Year’s message, President Muizzu outlined key national development goals. Recent political and administrative updates include a new system for immediate party resignation, online applications for local council elections, and a signed agreement between the Islamic Ministry and the Maumoon Foundation. Additionally, Civil Service dress code regulations have been amended, and Mayor Adam Azim has filed a police report regarding illegal agreements. Amid New Year celebrations, the government faced opposition criticism and a national appeal from former President Yameen, while Reeko Moosa Manik expressed interest in the MDP Chairperson position.

Key updates today include changes to the Civil Service dress code regulations and a government decision to provide MVR 28 million in aid to 39 media outlets. President Muizzu issued a decree to relocate the residents of Hirimaradhoo to Hanimaadhoo, while Ashraf Ali resigned as President of the Dhivehi Language Academy. Meanwhile, the opposition criticized the government over New Year’s Eve expenses, delays in the "Binveriya" housing scheme, and issues surrounding the Rasmalé project. Additionally, former Vice President Adeeb released a message reflecting on the past decade.

A presidential decree has been issued to relocate the residents of Hirimaradhoo to Hanimaadhoo. Forty-one media outlets have qualified for government financial assistance, while 70% of the Media Village project is complete. Adhaalath Party has scheduled its internal presidential election, and law enforcement agencies have launched a joint operation. The sentencing of Hassan Mamdhooh (Manday) in the K-Park fraud case has been postponed. Additionally, the opposition coalition heavily criticized government policies during a recent meeting.

The Elections Commission has announced a TikTok competition to raise awareness for the council elections. Meanwhile, former President Yameen has alleged corruption in the Ras Malé project and criticized President Muizzu’s lifestyle and governance, expressing concern over the country's judicial and political state. Additionally, the government's housing policy is facing criticism, and the Adhaalath Party has opened applications for its presidency today.

Key political developments today include President Muizzu and the First Lady’s departure for Singapore, discussions with India regarding the Thilamale Bridge project, and the graduation of the first National Service batch. Additionally, MDP published its permanent primary candidate list, and PNC announced its council primary results. The government began relocating land plots from Giravaru Falhu to Gulhifalhu, while the Ministry of Islamic Affairs launched its 2026 Action Plan. Furthermore, HRCM denied allegations of conducting research into other religions, and reports surfaced regarding a private meeting between President Muizzu and the President of the Elections Commission.

President Muizzu and the First Lady have departed for an unofficial visit to Singapore as the PNC holds its primary elections for local councils and Women's Development Committees. Other key developments include 19 candidates applying for High Court judge vacancies, HRCM seeking a new office, and Dhaandhoo Council facing issues over unpaid electricity bills. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding a referendum to reduce parliamentary terms, alongside public criticism of the government's environmental policies.

Today’s key political news includes the opening of financial aid applications for media outlets and Home Minister Ihsan’s warning of strict measures against drug networks. Additionally, the deportation of undocumented migrants via "Operation Kurangi" is accelerating, while former judges apply for High Court vacancies and PNC internal election activities intensify. Furthermore, former President Yameen continues to criticize the government's economic policies, while efforts to strengthen council relations and independent institutional administration remain ongoing.

Key political developments last Thursday included the release of former Immigration Controller Shamman from custody and HDC’s order to vacate social housing units illegally sublet to foreigners. Additionally, HRCM condemned the harassment of Supreme Court Justice Shujune, while former Presidents Nasheed and Solih met and agreed to cooperate. The government also gazetted a new framework for providing financial state aid to media outlets. President Muizzu held discussions regarding the development of Madifushi and met with taxi drivers. Other highlights included a decision to withhold allowances for retired police officers holding other state positions and opposition criticism regarding government spending.