Politics.

Amid escalating debates between the government and opposition parties regarding the Rasmale' project, former President Mohamed Nasheed called on 29 September 2026 for a special legal framework for the project to be formulated and passed by the People's Majlis. While the opposition highlights concerns over the government not disclosing the agreement made with Eagle Hills under this project and the non-receipt of advance payments, the government has decided to proceed by creating a dedicated legal system for the project. Furthermore, the government has stated that foreign investors cannot own land and that it will only be leased; following this decision, disagreements and political debates between both sides over formulating a new law have intensified significantly.

Following the publication of financial declarations of People's Majlis members on 29 September 2026, considerable attention has been drawn to the issue of funds received as gifts by some members; accordingly, the financial declaration of the Speaker of the Majlis, Abdul Raheem Abdulla, revealed that he received more than one hundred thousand Rufiyaa as gifts from well-wishers to cover travel and credit card bills. In addition, the Majlis Administration disclosed that although 91 out of the 93 members of the Majlis submitted their financial declarations regularly, North Machangolhi MP Ibrahim Mohamed (Janab) and Naifaru MP Yaseen Abdulla did not submit their financial declarations. Following the surfacing of details of members' income, expenses, and such gifts, debates are ongoing among the public regarding transparency and integrity.

Work commenced on 29 September 2026 to resume court hearings in the ongoing trial cases against former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. Accordingly, arrangements have been made at the court stage to proceed with hearings according to his case schedule after an interruption. With the rescheduling and resumption of these hearings, the judiciary is completing the necessary legal steps to conclude these cases.

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has won by a large majority an opinion poll conducted by "Sun Online" to determine the most capable candidate to contest on behalf of the main opposition party, MDP, in the 2028 presidential election. While Shahid secured first place by obtaining more than half the votes cast in this poll, at 58.3 percent, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came second with 16 percent of the votes. Additionally, former President Mohamed Nasheed received 13.9 percent, Dr. Ahmed Shamheed received 6.7 percent, and former Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail received 4.9 percent in this poll. At a time when Shahid has announced that he will contest the MDP presidential primary to be held next year, the result of this poll demonstrated strong support for him to secure the party's ticket.

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has shared important information regarding the final preparations underway for holding the party's congress. During this meeting, the latest arrangements for how the congress will proceed and the details of the agenda set for participants were revealed. Furthermore, the MDP stated that preparations for the significant decisions to be made through this congress—aimed at further strengthening the party's internal governance and political activities—have been completed.

The President of the Elections Commission, Fuad Thaufeeq, delivered significant remarks regarding the transition of power on 29 September 2026. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of conducting the national transition of power peacefully, in accordance with legal principles and democratic values. He also stated that cooperation from all parties would be required to smoothly complete the transfer of power procedures following the electoral phases. Furthermore, Fuad Thaufeeq emphasized the importance of respecting constitutional principles at every such stage and state institutions fulfilling their legal responsibilities fully.

Major debates and disputes have arisen both within the party and in the political arena following the appointment of the party's chairperson, Fayyaz Ismail, as MDP's running mate. Due to this decision, differences of opinion have emerged among some senior figures and general members of the party, and questions are being raised regarding the manner in which the decision was made. Furthermore, various parties are expressing concern, stating that this could disrupt the internal unity of the party for upcoming political endeavors.

The Minister of Homeland Security and Technology stated on September 29, 2026, that the government will undertake all necessary efforts to maintain the Maldives as a safe and peaceful destination. In the Minister's remarks, it was highlighted that establishing a safe environment for visitors to the Maldives and Maldivian citizens is essential for the nation's economy and social stability. Furthermore, assurance was given on that day that all relevant institutions would collaborate to take robust measures to sustain national security and safety.

On September 29, 2026, Ibrahim Hussain, a member of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC), delivered significant remarks regarding the political opposition. In his speech, he highlighted the political viewpoints and activities of the opposition, revealing the reality behind their claims concerning government policies. Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing national interests and refraining from actions that could hinder the nation's stability and development, he also stressed the need for responsible engagement in political matters.