News Desk
Malé — At a ceremony marking the 92nd anniversary of the Maldives Police Service, President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu called for greater transparency in police investigations while criticizing political opponents for promoting policies he claims have fueled social problems, including a recent tragedy in the capital. His remarks, delivered at the Hulhumalé Synthetic Track, combined support for law enforcement with criticism of the opposition’s policies.
President Muizzu urged the police to share information promptly with the public to build trust and counter misinformation. “Act quickly, share details first, and revise rules to prioritize openness,” he said, arguing that transparency would thwart “those who lie and stir division for political gain.” He stressed that citizens should provide information to assist investigations without obstructing police work, a delicate balance he described as essential for justice and the rule of law.
The comments come amid scrutiny of the police following a high-profile incident last week, when a 21-year-old woman fell to her injuries from the ninth floor of a building in Malé. The case has sparked public outrage, with allegations linking high-profile figures, including two officials from the president’s office, to a party that night. One official was fired immediately, and another was suspended without pay. One had been appointed despite a prior drug-related criminal record. President Muizzu did not address these specifics but called the incident “very sad” and used it to pivot to a broader critique of his political rivals.
Blaming the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), President Muizzu pointed to their 2013 campaign slogan, “Have fun without fear,” which promoted liberal social policies. He argued that such messaging led young people astray, pulling them away from “the rules, principles, and beautiful traditions of Islam.” He claimed that those who encouraged a carefree lifestyle bear “the biggest responsibility” for societal issues like drug use and moral decline. “People must distinguish between truth and falsehood,” he said, accusing critics of exploiting vulnerable youth for political advantage.
Muizzu defended the police against accusations of dishonesty, insisting, “I don’t believe the police would lie to the people. There’s nothing to gain from that.” He portrayed critics of law enforcement as sowing discord and urged citizens to “be patient” and allow officers to do their jobs.
To strengthen the force, he announced plans to establish police services on all inhabited islands by year’s end and build dedicated stations on 110 islands over the next three years. Investments in training and facilities, he said, would bring police work “closer to the community.”
During the ceremory in his remarks Police Commissioner (CP) Ali Shujau acknowledged the challenges ahead in earning the love, respect, and trust of the public. Speaking candidly, CP Shujau reflected on lessons learned since the advent of multi-party democracy in Maldives, admitting that past incidents have tarnished the police’s image. He emphasized ongoing efforts to align the service with standards seen in developed nations, stating, “I believe that there is still a lot to be done to make the police service an institution that is loved and respected by the people.”
Amid recent criticism following the police’s handling of a 21-year-old woman’s case, which sparked widespread distrust, particularly among youth, CP Shujau assured the public that the Police Service would remain committed to fairness and sacrifice to ensure safety and security. He firmly declared, “The Police Service is not a service that will be cruel to the people,” signaling a commitment to strengthening community relations.
At the ceremony, President Muizzu, joined by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, ministers, senior police officials, and other government leaders, was greeted by an honor guard. He presented awards to officers for their exceptional service, adding a celebratory note to the event.
