Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated that human dignity must be respected when expressing opinions on political matters. Shaheem made this statement while expressing concern over the mocking of autistic children in a Raajje TV program. In a post on “X”, Shaheem said it was unfortunate to speak in a way that belittles and undermines the dignity of autistic children and individuals with Down syndrome. He also emphasized that human dignity must be respected when expressing political opinions.
In the program called “Kaalabaisaa” aired on Raajje TV, former MP of Nolhivaram constituency Mohamed Nasheed Abdulla (Mosta) and former Colonel Ahmed Fayaz Ali Riza (Papa Fayaz) mocked such children in connection with political discussions. While discussing the story of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu calling and threatening a journalist, Papa Fayaz, criticizing this government, referred to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, saying he seems to have autistic tendencies and that his actions are like those of an autistic child, thus ridiculing him.
In response to this, Mosta joked, “Not just autistic, he seems to have Down syndrome too.” Along with this, the TV presenter and these two individuals mocked the condition of children suffering from such illnesses, saying it seems like an autistic person is running this government. And upon saying this, all three hosts burst into laughter.
