News Desk
The government suspended State Minister of Tourism Mohamed Nihad following controversial remarks he made during a People’s National Congress (PNC) rally, accusing the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) of plotting a terrorist attack targeting the country’s critical tourism sector.
The Ministry of Tourism promptly distanced itself from Nihad’s allegations, emphasizing that his comments did not reflect the official position of the government. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the Maldives’ reputation as a safe and welcoming destination, particularly as the nation approaches the milestone of two million tourist arrivals under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.
A senior government official confirmed that Nihad’s suspension was a direct response to his remarks, which provoked widespread criticism from industry leaders and the public. Calls for his dismissal have dominated public discourse, with many urging President Muizzu to act decisively to safeguard the country’s economic lifeline.
The MDP issued a statement condemning Nihad’s claims as baseless and detrimental to national stability. The party underscored the importance of protecting businesses serving tourists and called for enhanced security measures to ensure the industry remains unaffected by political tensions.
Nihad’s suspension has reignited debates over the intersection of political rhetoric and the Maldives’ reliance on tourism. This incident is not without precedent. Earlier this year, inflammatory remarks by three junior ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led to a temporary boycott by Indian tourists, causing a noticeable dip in arrivals.
Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal personally intervened, organizing roadshows and engaging with Indian industry leaders to restore confidence. The subsequent recovery in Indian arrivals highlighted the vulnerability of the Maldives’ tourism-dependent economy.
“This year has been an exceptional one for Maldivian tourism, marked by significant milestones,” read a Ministry of Tourism statement. “The Maldives recorded its highest-ever daily arrivals, with 10,213 visitors on February 10, 2024, and the highest monthly arrivals of 217,392 visitors in February 2024. These achievements underscore the vital contributions of the tourism sector to local communities, fostering increased employment opportunities and sustained economic growth.”
The Ministry of Tourism, in its press release following Nihad’s suspension, reiterated the government’s dedication to preserving the Maldives’ reputation as a premier destination.
“The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with stakeholders and guided by the vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, remains fully dedicated to preserving the Maldives’ reputation as a peaceful sanctuary,” the statement read. “Our commitment extends beyond providing unforgettable vacations—it includes ensuring that every visitor feels safe, cared for, and embraced by the warmth of Maldivian hospitality.”
The statement also celebrated the sector’s record-breaking achievements and reassured stakeholders of the government’s focus on sustaining the momentum.
Critics warn that Nihad’s remarks, if left unaddressed, could have far-reaching diplomatic and economic consequences. The PNC has since sought to manage the fallout, clarifying that Nihad’s statements reflected his personal views and not the party’s stance.
“We strongly urge everyone to refrain from actions that could jeopardize the nation’s peace, stability, and economic prosperity,” the PNC said in a statement, even as party bigwigs at the rally applauded Nihad’s outburst.
Nihad, who previously represented the S. Feydhoo constituency as a member of the MDP MP before switching allegiance to the PNC last December, was appointed to his post shortly after his political realignment. His remarks underscore the challenges President Muizzu faces in navigating political dynamics while protecting the economic bedrock of the Maldives.
As the Maldives nears its tourism milestone, the government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring visitor safety and shielding the industry from political fallout.
