President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has asserted that there should be no room for ideologies that contradict Islamic principles within this hundred percent Muslim society. The President strongly criticized certain opposition figures who have expressed dissatisfaction following the government’s submission of an amendment to the Penal Code to criminalize gambling. Speaking at the ceremony held to inaugurate the People’s National Congress (PNC) office, President Dr. Muizzu emphasized that political ideologies that promote or call for actions contrary to the faith should not be afforded opportunities in a fully Islamic community.
Referring to the backlash regarding the bill submitted to the People’s Majlis to amend the Maldives Penal Code to designate gambling as a criminal offense, the President stated that those working within ideologies that encourage un-Islamic practices should not hold positions through elections. He remarked that all customs and traditions of this nation must align with the standards of an Islamic country, adding that national reform can only be achieved to the extent that such values are upheld by its citizens.
In his address, the President highlighted that the government’s top priority is to champion Islam and shape all matters in accordance with Islamic tenets. He pointed to several ongoing efforts in this direction, noting that as part of the crackdown on businesses operating illicit activities under the guise of massage parlors, approximately 104 such establishments were closed in Malé City alone within a month. Furthermore, he noted that the law has been amended and ratified to prescribe the death penalty for those involved in drug trafficking above a certain threshold as a measure to address the narcotics crisis. The President also announced that amendments to the local tourism regulations and guidelines for safari operations, including standards to be maintained in inhabited areas, would be gazetted soon. He emphasized that local councils must play a crucial role in implementing these reformatory measures.
The President concluded by stating that it is a mistake to compromise the Maldivian identity for the sake of political trends. He noted that anyone who reflects independently, free from bias and returns to the core values of the nation, would recognize the reality behind the rhetoric used by politicians for political gain.
