News Desk
Malé, Maldives – In a rare and heartfelt statement issued today, Sajidha Mohamed, the First Lady of the Maldives, has publicly condemned the spread of false rumors about her 16-year-old son, Umair Mohammed Muizzu.
The press release, dated 15 Ramadan 1446 AH (corresponding to March 15, 2025), addresses baseless claims circulating in the media and on social platforms, including allegations that Umair vapes—assertions the First Lady firmly denies.
Sajidha Mohamed highlighted that these rumors, which she attributes to political opponents of her husband, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, have escalated in recent days. She expressed deep concern over the potential impact on Umair’s education, social development, and safety, as well as the harassment extending to her 8-year-old younger son. “My son, Umair, is a 16-year-old child. He has his future ahead of him, and his education is not yet complete,” she stated, emphasizing that her children have no role in political matters.
The First Lady underscored her decision to take personal legal action against those responsible for the defamation, acting solely as a mother rather than involving the government. “Like any parent, my primary duty is to my children,” she said, noting that her aim is to safeguard not only her own family but also other children facing similar threats to their dignity and well-being. She added that her legal counsel would soon outline the specific measures she plans to pursue.
She concluded her statement with a prayer for the protection of all children in the Maldives, saying, “May Allah protect all our children. Ameen!”
The full press release translated, is attached below for reference.
Press Release from the First Lady of the Maldives
Malé, Maldives
15 Ramadan 1446 AH / 15 March 2025
Over the past year, especially in recent days, false stories about my son, Umair Mohammed Muizzu, have been circulated through the media and social media platforms. These include rumors that Umair vapes. I want to clarify that Umair does not vape or use tobacco.
These rumors are being spread by various parties who oppose my husband. They could adversely affect my child’s education and social development. I am also concerned that these developments have harmed his future and put his safety at risk.
Every child in the Maldives is protected under the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives and its legal framework for children’s rights. My son, Umair, is a 16-year-old child. He has his future ahead of him, and his education is not yet complete. Most importantly, he has no involvement in political decisions his father and I made. Furthermore, it is unacceptable that these individuals have begun bullying and harassing my eldest son, Umair, and my 8-year-old younger son.
I have not taken any action against anyone for criticizing President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu’s decisions or political views. He chose to enter the political arena and has remained there of his own free will. At the same time, since he assumed office, certain individuals have been constantly insulting and harassing me. Although these actions are not occurring in secret or disguise, I have not responded to them until now.
However, as a mother, especially of my children under 18, I have decided to take action against those defaming their names and dignity and undermining their rights as children. Like any parent, my primary duty is to my children. It is also my husband’s and my responsibility to ensure their safety and future. I believe this action is necessary to protect not only my children but also others in similar situations, as defamation of families and threats to children’s dignity and safety are worsening.
I am taking these steps personally as their mother, without government involvement. My goal is to create a safe environment for all of our children.
As mentioned above, my legal counsel will disclose the steps I intend to take.
May Allah protect all our children. Ameen!
Sajida Mohammed
