The government has launched an inquiry after receiving requests to find out the number of times President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed visited the Aarah presidential island.
Defense Ministry provided almost the same responses when Right to Information (RTI) requests were filed by Adhadhu and a private individual. The ministry said it cannot disclose the number of trips and the expenses incurred.
The ministry claimed that the information can be used to endanger the president and his family. The response stated that the military would take necessary steps to identify the intention of those seeking the information.
The repair and recurrent expenses of Aarah are covered by the military budget. The ministry has also classified these figures and the details of the government officials accompanying the President.
Adhadhu filed a separate RTI request at the President's Office to clarify the number of visits to Aarah since Muizzu assumed office in November 2023. But the President's Office said they do not keep a record of that information.
There is speculation about the frequent visits to Aarah and the huge burden on the state to fund the trips.
The government spokesperson Heena Waleed earlier refused to respond to questions about the trips. She said Presidents have the option to visit the presidential island and hold meetings with ministers on the island.
