Some people want to show to the world that there are Maldivians who reject Islam Maldives- Shaheem

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that the recent obstructions of the religious lectures organized by the ministry are schemes plotted by some people to show to the world that there are some Maldivians who reject Islam in the Maldives.

In a press conference held at the head office of the Adhaalath Party, Sheikh Shaheem said that these schemes are plotted to spread secularism in the Maldives.

“Therefore, Allaah willing we will never give this opportunity to these people. Take heed of these events. The delegates of the ministry who went to the island, they were not politicians, just a few scholars who do not even represent a political party. They are scholars who have never ever participated in any protest or political activity. However the councils harassed them and oppressed them,” he said.

Sheikh Shaheem said that these schemes are not plotted against one single individual but are directed against the religion of Islam.

“Why? Because the religion of Islam is the biggest threat against those who want to spread secularism in the Maldives. It is the biggest threat for them in 2013 and in 2018. They want to disgrace the respect the people have for the religion by harassing the scholars and obstructing religious education and sermons,” he said.

Sheikh Shaheem said that although it is the councils with the majority of the councilors from opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) there still are councils with MDP majority who oppose such actions of their party.

“From what I have been informed, MDP has majority authority over the council of Baa Atoll Goidhoo. But we have their full cooperation and support for our religious workshops held in their island,” he said.

The Minister expressed gratitude for all the councils which are showing cooperation and support for the religious workshops and lectures organized by the Ministry.