Government remains silent over reason for ex-Tourism Minister Faisal's dismissal

Jan 29, 2025, 11:13 AM
Artwork: Ismail Imdhad/ Adhadhu

Artwork: Ismail Imdhad/ Adhadhu

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his Spokesperson Heena Waleed have remained silent over the sudden dismissal of Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal.

Faisal's dismissal was announced on Tuesday morning. Muizzu began a tour of Haa Alif atoll soon after the announcement.

The President's Office did not provide details in a press release issued after the first dismissal of a Minister in the Muizzu administration.

Adhadhu repeatedly called and messaged Heena for a comment on Tuesday. She finally responded on Wednesday morning.

Heena said the appointment and dismissal of ministers is a constitutional power given to the President. But she did not explain why the President exercised that power to dismiss Faisal and did not respond when requested for details.

In his tour of Haa Alif atoll, Muizzu visited four islands on Tuesday. However, he did not mention the sudden dismissal of a key Minister in his public speeches.

Faisal's dismissal came amid the deteriorating relationship between his father parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla and Muizzu.

In an interview with a local news outlet, Abdul Raheem said Faisal would not have been sacked if his relationship with Muizzu had not deteriorated.

Meanwhile, the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) has started discussing the removal of the Fonadhoo MP from the position of Speaker.

Abdul Raheem shortened his trip to Malaysia and returned to the country on Tuesday night. He dodged reporters at the airport and went straight to his official residence.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Suspect arrested for repeated public nuisance escapes facility

Ahmed Fairish, a man arrested for public nuisance and harassment, has escaped from a drug treatment facility in Himmafushi. He was transferred there under police supervision following his recent arrest on October 17. Authorities are currently searching for the suspect, who has a history of criminal behavior and making death threats.

PNC secures both seats in election for LGA board

The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) won both seats in the election for the Local Government Authority board. PNC candidates Ali Ahmed and Maryam Zeena defeated their MDP rivals to represent local councils and Women’s Development Committees. The election occurred alongside the unopposed appointment of Kulhudhuffushi Mayor Mohamed Athif.

"MDP will end Rasmale' deal if it goes without consultation"

MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail warned that a future MDP government will terminate the Rasmalé project if it proceeds without public consultation. He opposes granting land to UAE’s Eagle Hills indefinitely, citing concerns over national sovereignty and the lack of acquisition costs. Fayyaz urged President Muizzu to allow for public debate.

Milestone as Thilamale Bridge connects Villimale and Gulhifalhu

The Thilamale Bridge has reached a major milestone by physically connecting Villimale and Gulhifalhu, creating a continuous link from Male'. Developed by Afcons Infrastructure, the project is now slated for completion in September 2026. Construction progressed through multiple phases despite political disputes over the project's timeline.

Sukuk or bond issue listed in budget for 2027

The government plans to issue a $175 million international bond or sukuk in 2027 to manage foreign debt, part of a $675 million three-year borrowing strategy. Despite past failures to enter the market and a "junk" credit rating, officials hope this move will ease financial pressure following a major reserve drawdown for previous repayments.

Government to deploy an AI-powered smart traffic system in Male'

The Maldives government has included an AI-powered "Smart Traffic Enforcement System" in next year’s budget to tackle congestion in Malé. Part of the "Maldives 2.0" policy, the initiative aims to modernize traffic monitoring through digitalization. The plan also includes a new data center and digital ID system to improve public services.

"President does not have authority to allow non-Muslim residency"

Former Chief Justice Dr. Ahmed Abdulla Didi argues that the President lacks the constitutional authority to grant long-term residency to non-Muslims in Rasmalé. He asserts that such sovereign power belongs solely to the people. Didi also criticized Jamiyyathul Salaf for supporting the government's plan under specific conditions.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox