The Adhaalath Party (AP) has called for action against a resort and the individuals involved following the circulation of a social media video depicting a same-sex wedding ceremony held at the property.
Snapshots from the video show two men holding hands on the beach of a Maldivian resort. Based on their attire and the setting, the event appears to be a symbolic wedding ceremony.
The Maldives Police Service has launched an investigation into the matter. In a statement released yesterday, the Adhaalath Party condemned the incident in the strongest terms, describing it as an affront to the Islamic faith and the culture and traditions of the Maldives.
"As resorts fall under the jurisdiction of the Maldives, no party should be permitted to conduct activities that desecrate the sanctity of Islam or facilitate major crimes and offences that violate Maldivian laws," the Adhaalath Party statement read.
The party urged authorities to investigate the resort that facilitated the filming and all participants involved, calling for the maximum penalties permitted under the law.
Confirming the commencement of a probe, the Maldives Police Service stated that they are investigating the matter as it constitutes an illegal act under Maldivian law.
The police emphasised that since Islam is the state religion of the Maldives, all parties must refrain from actions that contravene religious and Sharia principles, national laws, and public social and moral standards. Furthermore, the police instructed foreign employees working in resorts and guesthouses to ensure that such activities are not permitted to take place.
The video has sparked widespread public backlash, with many expressing outrage and asserting that such activities should never be allowed on Maldivian soil.
