The briefing
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.
Hanimaadhoo Airport welcomed its first commercial jet, while Maafaru Airport anticipates record flight arrivals. Several infrastructure projects have been contracted, including land reclamation in Faresmaathodaa and Maaenboodhoo, road construction in Fiyoaree, expansion of Male' Bazaar roads, and the development of a hospital in Vilimale'. Additionally, the European market maintains a significant share of the tourism sector. Economic highlights include ensuring food security for Ramadan, expanding STO outlets, rising gold prices, and progress in bunkering services and SME loan disbursements.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed officiated the final match and closing ceremony of the CAVA Women's Volleyball Cup on December 26. During the event, she presented trophies and medals to the winning teams and top-performing players.
As of December 26, 2025, significant shortages of weight-loss medications and medical supplies have been reported. This scarcity is severely impacting the healthcare sector and creating major challenges for patients seeking necessary treatments.
The Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) now requires PhD candidates to complete a three-year full-time residency. Additionally, reading nooks have been established for students in the Hiyaa area of Hulhumalé Phase 2, and a new vocational high school opened today to provide students with practical training opportunities.
Manta Air has been fined MVR 20,000 for constructing an illegal seaplane platform in Ifuru. Meanwhile, a protest was held near a dredger today over the environmental impact of the Rasmalé reclamation project. The MET Office has issued a white alert for heavy rain in southern atolls, and work is underway to establish solar-diesel-battery hybrid energy systems across various islands.
Today, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy proposed a 20-point peace framework following discussions with the United States. Meanwhile, former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has been convicted and sentenced in the 1MDB corruption case. Additionally, Israel has officially announced its intention to establish permanent settlements in Gaza.
Key events today include the observance of National Unity Day 2025, Customs seizing MVR 30 million worth of drugs, and the arrest of K-Park director Manday. Additional highlights include increasing the single parent allowance to MVR 12,000, the opening of new mosques, and concerns regarding the rising expatriate population. Furthermore, Umrah pilgrims have begun departing for the school holidays, while police have launched special safety operations for the New Year.
