Protest in Foakaidhoo over dismissal of 13 Fenaka employees

Aug 31, 2026, 8:12 AM
Protest held in Foakaidhoo last night -- Photo: Social Media

Protest held in Foakaidhoo last night -- Photo: Social Media

Protesters in Shaviyani Foakaidhoo took to the streets last night to demand President Mohamed Muizzu's resignation, following the dismissal of 13 employees from the local Fenaka Corporation branch.

The demonstration, which began at the Foakaidhoo harbour and proceeded to the Fenaka office, saw a large gathering of youth and residents calling for an end to the victimisation and marginalisation of citizens.

Led by members of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), protesters carried signs reading "You can take our jobs, but you cannot break our spirit." Describing the current period as the "darkest and most oppressive days" in the island's history, participants vowed to bring about a change in government.

In addition to demanding justice for the terminated staff, protesters called for the resignations of the Foakaidhoo Fenaka branch management, the constituency’s Member of Parliament, and members of the local ruling party steering committee.

The Foakaidhoo Island Council also issued a formal statement yesterday, strongly condemning the sudden dismissal of the 13 employees without prior notice, stating that the move has left 13 families in a state of uncertainty.

The Council highlighted that these terminations directly contradict Muizzu’s presidential pledge to ensure job security. They argued that targeting individuals with opposing political views under the guise of "rightsizing" the company is an unacceptable practice.

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