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Finance Minister and State Finance Minister resigns
Finance Minister Ahmed Inaaz and State Finance Minister has resigned today. Speaking to Miadhu news Inaz said that although he resigned from the position he will remain as a member of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and will stay with the people that loves the religion of Islam and party. He said the meeting with Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) MP Abdulla Yameen was initiated by him and that he does not want to take anything that happened because of the meeting as an issue. “When we live we will face issue. That’s not a problem. I don’t believe that meeting Yameen was a mistake I did,” he told Miadhu. Press Secretary for the President Mohamed Zuhair told Miadhu news earlier that a text message of resignation sent by the Minister to the President whiles the President was in Sri Lanka cannot be considered as his formal resignation. The message was sent to the President after some MDP activists knew about the meeting held with Yameen inside his car and forced him to send the text after taking him to MDP Haruge forcibly. Zuhair said that it has to be noted that Yameen’s initiative was there in the meeting. MDP, Adhaalath Party and MDP MP Mohamed Musthafa have meanwhile condemned the way MDP activists treated to Inaz when they learnt about the incident. President Mohamed Nasheed has earlier praised Inaaz more than once for his work during the short time he served the government while the opposition has been pressuring him over issues such as not issuing subsidies to fisherman and withholding budget allocated for Maldives Broadcasting Corporation. NGO Coalition asks government to sincerely fulfill citizen’s demands
The NGO Coalition has called on the government to stop criticizing the demands made by the opposition parties and NGO Coalition on the December 23rd protest and has called to “sincerely” fulfill the demands. Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Vice President of NGO Coalition Abdulla Mohamed said he was happy that the protest last Friday was conducted peacefully without any of the activities the government thought would take place happening. He said the government was now misinterpreting the five demands made that day and said the citizens that called on the government not to harm anyone that assisted or took part in the protest. President of Adhaalath Party Sheikh Imran said that the truth of the current government is revealing more as the government tries to change the demands made by the protesters that day. He called on the government to fulfill the demands by the 5th of January at the most, calling on the government to stop criticizing the demands. He also reminded that the protesters took an oath that day and that they will uphold the oath they took. President of the NGO Coalition Sheikh Mohamed Didi said that it is Maldivian citizens that has asked for something by their President and said the need to discuss it with the Maldivians instead of discussing it with other countries. MATI concerned over government’s decision to shut down all the Spas
Maldives Association of Tourism Industries (MATI) has expressed concern that the government has decided to shut down all the Spas in the maldivian resorts. A statement issued by MATI which was signed by its President Sim Ibrahim Mohamed said that it will not only harm the economy of the country but it will cause loss for the tourists that visit the Maldives after paying huge sums of money. MATI said the tourism industry appeals to the government and opposition to find a peaceful solution for the issue considering the loss for the tourism business, tourism industry and to foreign businesses related to this business. MATI also urged not put the main source of economy which is tourism in to the disputes between the government and opposition and to give high priority to the economy and peace of the country.
Indians, Second Largest Bribe Payers in
South Asia
President Ratifies Three Bills Passed by
the People’s Majlis
Vice President Praises Members of
Parliament Following the Passing of Government Submitted Drugs Bill
Bandhu Ibrahim Saleem is Dismissed as
Member of Board of Directors and as Managing Director of Island Aviation
Services Limited Board of Directors
Latest China food safety scandal widens to
oil
President Nasheed Arrives in Male’ President Mohamed Nasheed has arrived back in Malé yesterday evening, after concluding his official trip to Sri Lanka. The President made the visit to Sri Lanka to inspect the Passing out Parade of Sri Lanka Military Academy, on the invitation of the Sri Lankan government. Indonesian Ambassador Pays Farewell Call On President Nasheed
Indonesian Ambassador accredited to the Maldives Djafar Husein has paid his farewell call on President Mohamed Nasheed today. During the meeting held at the President’s Office in the morning, the President expressed his gratitude for the important work done by the Indonesian Ambassador in co-coordinating and furthering ties between the two countries.
Protestors demanded to cancel flights of
Israeli national carrier but Gasim’s Flyme terminated instead- PPM New Peruvian Ambassador Presents Credentials to the President
New Ambassador of Peru accredited to the Maldives, Javier Paulinich has presented his letter of credence to President Mohamed Nasheed today. At the ceremony held at the President’s Office to present the credentials, the President congratulated Ambassador Paulinich. Discussions at the meeting were focused on the bilateral relations between the Maldives and Peru, as well as on ways of further enhancing cooperation between both countries at an international level. At the meeting, President Nasheed updated Ambassador Paulinich on the government’s progress towards mitigating the consequences of climate change in the Maldives and spoke on how to lobby for climate change. Yaameen is behind Inaz’s meeting with him: Zuhair
Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair has said that there is reason to believe that Parliamentary Council member of the opposition Peoples’ Progressive Party (PPM) member and Mulaku MP Abdullah Yaameen took the initiative for the meeting held between him and Minister of Finance and Treasury Ahmed Inaz.
Pakistan-Maldives relations to be
enhanced: PM Information Communication Technology Consolidation Executive Committee
President Mohamed Nasheed has reconstituted the Executive Committee for the Information Communication Technology. Minister of Transport and Communication Mohamed Adil Saleem is appointed as the Chairman of the Board. The responsibilities of the Board include monitoring and evaluating the consolidation and centralisation of ICT resources of the government.
Govt considering to ban massage parlours, pork and alcohol nation-wide: Zuhair Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair has said that the government is considering on banning all massage parlours, trade of pork and alcoholic beverages nation-wide as a response to the 23 December mass demonstration.
Minister Inaz forced to send an sms to
President stating his resignation
JSalaf President summoned to Police
Maldives looks to mid-market Indian
tourists
Gasim says he is not worried even if the govt takes away all his wealth
Leader of the opposition Jumhooree Party and Maamigili MP, Gasim Ibrahim has said that he is not worried even if the government takes away all his wealth to suppress him for criticizing the government’s anti-Islamic policies. Speaking at the ceremony to commemorate the Tsunami that hit the Maldives seven years back, Gasim said that he has lived a poverty stricken life during his childhood and all what he has earned was from the bounty of Allah for his sincere work. “It is Allah who gives us from His bounty and it is He who takes away from us. So I trust in Allah alone. And even if the government takes away all my wealth I will still sleep content with what Allah has bestowed upon me,” he said.“The tsunami that has hit us today is much more aggressive and dangerous than the tsunami that hit our island nation in the year 2004. It is an obligation upon each individual of this nation to work hard and take up their hands in supplication, asking Allah to relieve us from the oppression of the current government which is worse than a tsunami,” he said. In view of the government’s decision to close down some spas of the resorts and to halt the flights of Flyme owned by Gasim, he said that the government to increase the poverty that the people are experiencing today under the current regime. He said that he would never waver away from working sincerely for the people even if the government takes away all his wealth.
Govt terminates Flyme operations and close
down therapist spas of Villa group Islamic Minister urges govt to break all ties with Israel
Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Adbul Majeed Abdul Bari has urged the government to break all ties with the Israel. Dr. Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari requested to pass a resolution in the Peoples’ Majlis to break all diplomatic ties between Maldives and Israel. The Minister requested as such answering the queries raised by the National Security Committee of the Majlis in relation to the case filed against the commencement of the flights of Israeli national carrier El Al. The case against the operations of the Israeli flights to Maldives was filed by Deputy President of Adhalath Party, Dr. Mauroof Hussein. The National Security Committee launched an investigation into the possibility of the Israeli operations posing a security threat to the country. Minister of Defence and National Security, Thalhath Ibrahim told the committee that Maldives National Defence Force will initiate special operations to ensure the national security during the commencement of the flights of Israel.
President Appoints members to the Board of
Directors for “Aa Sandha Pvt. Ltd.”
India, Pakistan hold talks on CBMs
President departs for Sri Lanka Purdue scientists reveal how bacteria build homes inside healthy cells
Bacteria are able to build camouflaged homes for themselves inside healthy cells - and cause disease - by manipulating a natural cellular process. Purdue University biologists led a team that revealed how a pair of proteins from the bacteria Legionella pneumophila, which causes Legionnaires disease, alters a host protein in order to divert raw materials within the cell for use in building and disguising a large structure that houses the bacteria as it replicates.
Current government a gift given to MDP by Gasim: Opposition MPs
Opposition members of the Peoples’ Majlis today stated that the current government is a gift presented to the ruling party, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) by the leader of the opposition Jumhooree Party (JP), Gasim Ibrahim. Establishing an Islamic state is the only solution: Sheikh Shaheem
Former State Minister for Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that his party, Adhaalath Party is not party seeking after authority but the party always will work towards bringing a responsible candidate to power. Shaheem said that if such a responsible and capable candidate is not to be found then the only solution is to establish an Islamic state in the Maldives. Speaking at the biggest demonstration ever to be staged in Maldives, Sheikh Shaheem said that 2013 will be the end of President Mohamed Nasheed’s regime if he does not return back to the true path. “There is nothing wrong in keeping good relations with foreign countries. We welcome the establishment of ties between countries. We do not want our neighbouring countries to be our enemies. We do not want the world countries to be our foes. We will work in harmony with every country that loves justice and peace,” he said. “However, to establish ties with countries that is showing enmity against Islam and Muslims and is at war with Muslims, this is never acceptable. It is not appropriate to take the enemies of Islam as our allies,” he said. In view of the derogatory statements of the President regarding the permisibility of marrying at the age of nine if the girl is mature in Islam, Sheikh Shaheem said that the nationwide mass demonstration held on December 23 was not held to demand the rights of marrying mature women below 18 and to take concubines.
Maldives is the least plagued by bribery
in South Asia: TI
Maldives/Islam: Thousands demonstrate in Maldives over Islamic law Thousands in the Maldives protested Friday, calling on the government to halt what they called “anti-Islamic” activities, including a plan to allow direct flights to Israel. More moderate supporters of the president rallied as well as debate swells over the future of the state’s religion. The Indian Ocean archipelago of 300,000 Muslims prohibits practicing any other faith. The protesters want authorities to stop the sale of alcohol in the islands, shut down brothels operating in the guise of massage parlors and demolish monuments gifted by other countries marking a South Asian summit last month because they see them as idols. More than 3,000 people heeded a protest call by the opposition Adhaalat, or Justice, Party and several other groups that accuse President Mohammed Nasheed’s government of compromising principles of Islam and call for strict Islamic law. “In defence of Islam” protest, biggest protest ever witnessed in Maldives
Thousands of people protested Friday, calling on the government to halt all anti-Islamic activities, making the protest to be the biggest protest every to be witnessed in the Maldives. All the main protest was held in capital Male’ City, protests under the same slogan was also staged in Addu City, Fuah Mulah, Kulhudhufushi, Hadhumathi, Laamu Gan, and other islands.
Dealing with public institutions: South
Asians including Pakistanis regularly pay bribes: TI Government will always listen to the pleas of the people: Zuhair
Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair said that the government will always listen to the pleas of the people. He said that the government will more importantly listen to the appeals of the religious scholars. Zuhair said this answering a question raised by Miadhu Daily in view of the Friday’s “Maldivians In Defence of Islam” mass demonstration. Zuhair said that the demands made by the demonstrators are the same demands reiterated by the opposition. He said that the government would meet these demands one by one. The press secretary said that it is difficult to give more details regarding the issue because it is unclear whether it was the opposition parties or the Civil Society Coalition who made the demands. Zuhair assured that the government will always uphold the religion of Islam. He said that protecting the religion is not an obligation on some people but rather it is an obligation on all the nationals of the Maldives. Furthermore, Zuhair criticized the organizers of the demonstration for allowing the former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom give a speech. He said that this reveals the aim of the demonstration that it is just another political demonstration held in the guise of “protecting Islam.” No more opportunities will be given to revile the honour of the courts: Gasim
Leader of the opposition Jumhooree Party (JP), Gasim Ibrahim has said that a fair and just judiciary is the main fundamental of Islam and true democracy. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Gasim said that the sovereignty of the country also is based on a fair and just judiciary. He said that if there is no just court of law that establishes justice, then the country will be in chaos and anarchy. Gasim said that the government does not show any respect to the rulings of the courts. He said that this reckless action of the government is in fact a revilement of the honour of the courts of law and also the judiciary of Maldives. “In Islam and this so called democracy, an independent judiciary is a crucial pillar of the state. The Judiciary should be independent from all undue influences,” he said. Gasim said that the people will never give any opportunity to the government to revile the honour of the judiciary again. He said that Jumhooree Party and all opposition parties will come out in defence of the Judiciary if the government continues to ridicule the justice system of the Maldives. We have continually adopted a conventional approach to living life in the path of Minimalism: President
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that Maldivians have continually adopted a conventional approach to living life in the path of moderation and minimalism. The President made this statement while speaking in his weekly radio address delivered Friday morning, in clear reference to all the religious protestors voicing their concerns in the name of protecting Islam. In his speech, the President noted that several unattributable sources have now begun to spread diverse hearsay with regard to certain Islamic laws, and that immediate attention needs to be given to the specific differentiation of accurate Islamic laws from such unconfirmed general assumptions. Speaking in this regard, the President revealed his likely intention of appealing to all the religious scholars and legal experts in the nation in a written attempt to seek their respective views and relevant guidance on national criminological practices. He also stressed on the urgent need to address certain other issues such as those concerning the permissibility of music as a form of entertainment in Islam, medical vaccination as part of disease prevention and portrait photography as a field of applied arts. Speaking on the protest scheduled to be held today, the President reconfirmed his intended participation in the demonstration led by the Ruling Party – MDP, in a plain attempt to express his support for moderation in the practice of Islam in the Maldives.
Which was your best holiday?
Nasheed announces Universal Health
Insurance Programme of 1 Lakh Rufiyaa
Nasheed calls for the continuation of
moderation in religious issues, at MDP rally
Sandhaanu Zaki awarded Dato’ ship by
Malaysian King
Progress can only be achieved by overcoming the fear of losing the nation to foreigners: Nasheed
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the progress can only be achieved by overcoming the fear of losing the nation to foreigners. Speaking at the ceremony held to assign documents of land tenure agreement to 20 selected recipients designated for housing provision in Hulhumale’ under the State’s ‘Veshifahi’ programme, the President said foreign investors come to Maldives to invest and do business and so it should be understood that they would take their profits with them.
Egypt military 'regrets transgressions' to
women There is no reason for me to be summoned to NSC: Imran
President of the Adhaalath Party, Sheikh Imran Abdullah has said that he believes that there is no good reason for the National Security Committee of the Peoples’ Majlis to summon him. Speaking at a programme of the local TV Channel, VTV, Sheikh Imran expressed his concern over the government’s scheme to deceive the public regarding the true motive of the protest to be held by Civil Society Coalition and political parties calling on to protect the state religion next Friday.
IDFC: India's water supply at risk A Muslim group to raise arms against another Muslim group is never permissible: Fareed
Sheikh Ibrahim Fareed Ahmed has said that it is not permissible for a Muslim group to raise arms against another Muslim group and cause mischief in the lands in the guise of forbidding evil. Announcing his stance regarding the mass protest to be held by Civil Society Coalition and political parties calling on to protect the state religion next Friday, Sheikh Fareed said that the best of manners should be followed when calling others to the religion of Islam. He said that Islam enjoined the Muslim to use wisdom, fair preaching and with kind admonitions. Sheikh Fareed who is also the Vice President of the Committee of Scholars of the Islamic Foundation of Maldives (IFM) said that the Muslims should follow this methodology when forbidding evil. “News of a coming evil has reached us. Two Muslim groups are to confront each other with zeal. Not only has this, but news of possible violence also been spread. This is indeed very saddening. This is nothing but a great calamity,” he said. “O sons of this land. Do not give opportunity for discord and disunity in this land,” he said. He urged the people to make peace and reconciliation between the two groups in dispute. “Try and strive to make peace. Do not put more fuel in to this fire. Save your selves and your wives and your children and your families from the hell fire,” he said.
Rapid rise in wildfires in large parts of
Canada
Police meets the organizers of mass
protest
Cabinet gives go-ahead for Male’-Hulhule
Bridge
National Security Committee to summon organizers of 23 Dec Protest
National Security Committee of the Peoples’ Majlis has decided to summon the organizers of the the protest to be held by Civil Society Coalition and political parties calling on to protect the state religion next Friday. Miadhu Daily was informed that the National Security Committee decided to summon President of the opposition Adhaalath Party, Sheikh Imran Abdullah and Vice President of the Civil Society Coalition, Abdullah Mohamed. The committee decided to summon the leading organizers at the meeting of the committee held yesterday. In the meeting, Galolhu Dhekunu constituence MP, Ahmed Mahloof said that the Friday’s protest will be a peaceful protest. He said that the protest is not organized to shed blood or to cause any violence. He added that the opposition parties and the organizers of the protest does not believe in violence. Interim Chairperson of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) said that MDP will come out to counter protest. He said that no one can stop them from counter protesting when the MDP has been falsely accused of trying to establish freedom of religion in the Maldives. The National Security Committee also decided to summon the protest committee of the ruling party. In addition to this, the committee decided to summon Police Commissioner Ahmed Faseeh and Chief of Defense Force Major General Moosa Ali Jaleel. It is now apparent that 23 Dec Protest is a political scheme- Zuhair
Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair has said that now it is apparent to the people that the nationwide protests arranged by Civil Society Coalition and opposition political parties for the 23rd of December were not sincere expressions of religious devotion, but rather a political scheme. Zuhair stated that the Civil Society Coalition is organizing the protest by publicizing their decisions after consultations in a committee. He said that the coalition also is heard to have their own spokesperson to update the media regarding the protest. “We are informed that they are arranging everything in a very organized manner. And selected individuals from them face the media to update on their arrangements. Last night we have seen that the party of the former President have announced certain conditions on behalf of the protest, if followed by the government, the (23 December) protest would be stopped. We do not know when and where this was finalized. I believe that it is the Civil Society Coalition that should decide on the matters related to the protest. So when PPM came up on the media on behalf of the Civil Society Coalition, then the reality of the protest is exposed,” he said. Zuhair said that the ruling party did not stage any counter protests against the protests held previously by the Civil Society Coalition. However, he said that the protest to be held in the coming Friday is very different from their earlier protests. Meanwhile, Press Secretary said on Monday: “Former President Gayoom, the Adhaalath Party and religious extremists are whipping up hatred, intolerance and xenophobia for political purposes. They hope to topple the government from the streets because they can’t defeat it through the ballot box.” There is no excuse to remain ignorant about Islam: Mufti Menk
The visiting scholar, Mufti of Zembabwe, Sheikh Ismail Moosa Menk has said that there is no excuse for anyone to remain ignorant about the religion of Islam. Lecturing at the hall of Islamic Center, Sheikh Menk said that seeking knowledge is incumbent upon every Muslim. He said that this is the solution to the confusion that is widespread with regards to religious issues. Airport is the hub of economic development of the nation: Rao
GMR Chairman G M Rao has said that making airports the latest hub, of economic development of a nation. Speaking at at the ground-breaking ceremony of the new terminal of Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, GMR Chairman Rao said, “We are conscious of the fact that, Ibrahim Nasir International Airport is and will be the gateway to this beautiful nation. Here too, we are fully committed to provide Airport Service Quality, which will delight all the passengers and all the airlines. In fact, you will be happy to know that, during the last 3 months, estimated Airport Service Quality, in your airport, has moved up 3 places in global ranking, in the category of 2 – 5 million passengers.” Rao said promised that, GMR will leave no stone unturned, and pull all stops, to ensure that Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, will be the pride of this nation, for generations to come. “As an infrastructure developer, GMR believes that, it is the custodian of the asset it builds, while the asset belongs to the nation and its people. Over the last one year, we have fulfilled every commitment as per the Agreement with the Government of Maldives, and we intend to respect and fulfill every remaining commitment as well,” he said. Rao additionally said, “over the next 12 months, a batch of 29 employees will be sent to India, every 2 months, for very useful on-the-job training, leading to a total of 174 people, being fully trained. This will be a continuous process for some time.”
Maldives Govt vows to implement all deals
with foreign companies
Nasheed Defends Islam and Maldivian
Culture, Condemns Violent Extremism Ahead of Protest
India-Pakistan ties: A year of building
trust Nasheed Congratulates Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari
President Mohamed Nasheed has congratulated Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr.Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari, following his reappointment as Minister of Islamic Affairs. During a telephone conversation with Dr. Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari this afternoon, President Mohamed Nasheed commended the consent given by People’s Majilis towards government actions taken to ensure the promotion and preservation of Islam in the Maldives.
25 US$ Charge From Every Passenger Should
Be Collected With Majlis’s Consent – President
Nasheed urges people to come out on Dec 23 and express their thoughts
President Mohamed Nasheed has urged the people to come out to the streets and voice out their thoughts on 23 December. He said that freedom of expression is a democratic right of every individual. Speaking at the public rally of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) held at Sosun Magu, President Nasheed said that that all actions taken by the Government in matters involving Islamic Jurisprudence, the Government will base its course of action only on the consensus and counsel of Islamic scholars. Nasheed said that the government has acted on the counsel of Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Majeed Abdul Baari in a number of matters. He said that the Ministry of Islamic Affairs decides on the religious policies of the country and the government will never oppose their decision. The President also said that the government is not intimidated with a people organizing an opposition protest. He said that what worries the government is when some people gave religious verdict to kill people. The President emphasised the importance of reconsidering the penal code if Islamic penalties such as stoning, hand-cutting and execution are to be implemented in Maldives. He urged the Parliament to complete the task of establishing a new penal code during their next term. Furthermore, the President said that the government will not allow other religions in the Maldives. He said that the government will always uphold Islam as the religion of the people of the Maldives.
DQP urges PPM not to cause dissention
among the mass protest participants
Indians pay $700 million every year for
land administration services President should sit in the office to know the thoughts of the people: Adhaalath
President of the Adhaalath Party (AP), Sheikh Imran Abdullah has urged the President not to go out to protest in the streets against the 23 December mass protest. Imran called President Mohamed Nasheed to stay in the President’s Office to witness the ‘to protect Islam’ protest and to hear the thoughts of the people. Imran said that he has received information that some people are planning to foil the protest by instigating violence. He has that no opportunity will be given to those people. He said that the party will make sure that the protest will not do any harm to the state. “We assure you that we will demonstrate peacefully in the confines of the constitution if we are not caused any harm. We are coming out to voice our thoughts. It is a constitutional right of every Maldivian. We have no other motive,” he said. Kamadhoo wins “Baa Youth Bodu Beru Challenge”
Kamadhoo Yamak group has won the “Baa Youth Bodu Beru Challenge”. The Bodu Beru Challenge that took place at B. Kamadhoo on December 16 & 17, 2011 was inaugurated by Landaa Giraavaru’s General Manager and Regional Vice President, Armando Kraenzlin and Youth Minister Hassan Latheef.
May Allah Bless this Little Girl.
A Pakistani girl has become the youngest student in the world to have passed the British Ordinary Level (Level) examination. Sitara Brooj Akbar, at the age of 11, passed six level subjects including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. In addition to this honour, Sitara also holds the title of being the youngest Pakistani candidate of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and successfully attained seven bands out of nine, scoring 7.5 in the testing system. The little genius from Chiniot (Punjab) has been making headlines across local media but is yet to receive any recognition from the Government of Pakistan. We do not need any sort of monetary aid from the government, we just want the government to recognise that Sitara has made a shining example for Pakistan on the international stage and she is the daughter of Pakistan, Sitara's father Ali Akbar told Dawn.com. Ali Akbar added that the British Council has declared and recognised Sitara's feat as the world's youngest student to have passed [ level exams. However, she has only been declared the youngest IELTS candidate in Pakistan, and not across the world, as the British Council is yet to confirm her feat globally. Speaking to Dawn.com, Sitara's mother mentioned that her daughter is a great fan of Dr Abdus Salam, Pakistan's sole Nobel laurete and aims to become a top researcher in the field of biochemistry.
Our unreasonable actions might lead to
civil unrest: VP
Nasheed Installs Solar Panels on
President's Office
Govt is spreading lies regarding the motive of the protestors: Mohamed Didi
Sheikh Mohamed Didi, the President of the Civil Society Coalition has said that the government has been spreading lies regarding the motive of the “In defense of Islam” mass protest to be held on December 23 nationwide. The world's smallest steam engine
What would be a case for the repair shop for a car engine is completely normal for a micro engine. If it sputters, this is caused by the thermal motions of the smallest particles, which interfere with its running. Researchers at the University of Stuttgart and the Stuttgart-based Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems have now observed this with a heat engine on the micrometre scale. Extremists is a matter of grave concern: Zuhair
Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair has said that extremism is a matter of concern for the government even if the extremists are few in number. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Zuhair said that the slogans posted on the official website of the December 23 mass protest raises concern. “It should be noted that the implementation of the law is through the courts of law. There is opportunity for bloodshed and chaos if a few extremists take the law to their hands. And if such people exist, controlling them would be utterly difficult,” he said. Zuhair said that he believes that there might be sincere scholars and other people who are participating in the protest organized by the Civil Society Coalition. He said that it is possible that some of the religious protestors are protesting for a good cause. "However, if extremist fringe people infiltrate the protest, they would be uncontrollable. Even the sincere scholars participating in the protest could not have an influence on them. This is how it has happened elsewhere in the world,” he said. Meanwhile, the opposition Adhaalath Party and Civil Society Coalition assured that the protest would be a peaceful demonstration held within the confines of the constitution and law. They said that no violence has ever been reported from any of their past demonstrations. President invites Jamiyyathus Salaf for a meeting
President’s Office has invited the religious organization headed by Jamiyathus Salaf for a meeting with the President. The invitation was sent in view of the recent remark made by President Nasheed in his Friday address requesting the counsel of the religious scholars in considering the implementation of Islamic penalties in the penal code. However, Jamiyyathhus Salaf said that they have not received any official invitation of the President. “President of this organization, Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohamed Ibrahim has not received any invitation requesting to meet President Mohamed Nasheed,” the organization said. Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair informed Miadhu Daily that an official invitation was not sent because Saturday is a public holiday. The President reiterated in his recent Friday address that the Government will base its course of action only on the consensus and counsel of Islamic scholars. Consultation is an important aspect of Islam: Sheikh Shaheem
Former State Minister for Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that consultation is an important aspect of Islam and that he is ready to hold any meeting to uphold the teachings of Islam. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Sheikh Shaheem said that differences in opinions can only be solved through consultation. He said that it is the only responsible measures that can be taken to bring a permanent solution to all disputes. “If President Mohamed Nasheed seeks my counsel regarding the heated issues in the country today, I am more than ready to meet him,” he said. Sheikh Shaheem said that it was the religious scholars who strived for the right of free speech despite the allegations of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) that they are the ones who first advocated the freedom of speech in Maldives. Sheikh Shaheem underscored the many sacrifices undergone by religious scholars for using freedom of speech including Sheikh Mohamed Ibrahim, Sheikh Ilyas Hussein, Sheikh Hussein Rasheed Ahmed, Sheikh BA Naseem and others.
Real call of religious protestors is to
initiate implementation of Islamic Penalties: Nasheed
Maldives Islamic Bank awarded ‘Best New
Bank’ award by CPI Financial
President returns to Malé President Mohamed Nasheed has arrived back in Malé this afternoon, after concluding his visit to UAE, to attend the jury meeting of “Zayed Future Energy Prize”. On arrival, the President visited “Gaa Koshi” area, the land plot allotted for the construction of new flats, as part of the government’s pledge to provide affordable housing. During his visit, President Nasheed observed the work being done at the construction site. He also met with the local media and briefed them on his recent trip to UAE, and the progress of the government’s housing plans. President Congratulates new Tunisian President President Mohamed Nasheed has congratulated President Moncef Marzouki of Tunisia, following his election to office. The President’s message to President Marzouki reads as follows: Quote: On behalf of the Government and the people of the Maldives, and on my own behalf, I wish to extend warm greetings and good wishes to Your Excellency, on your appointment as the President of the Republic of Tunisia. Watching the developments in Tunisia unfold from afar, it is clear that the country is entering a new era; one that promises a new beginning for the people of Tunisia. I remain confident that your Government will most ably oversee the establishment of the values of democracy within Tunisian society, in which fundamental human rights can be enjoyed by all. Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for your good health and success and for greater prosperity for the people of Tunisia. Unquote. Facing jail: Hind Ahmas, left, could be sentenced to two years in prison for wearing a banned Islamic head covering in France A 32-year-old mother from France is set to become the first woman ever to be sent to prison for wearing an Islamic veil. Hind Ahmas refuses to accept the legitimacy of a Paris court which has ordered her to spend 15 days learning her civic duties. She was sentenced by magistrates in Meaux, a Paris suburb, yesterday – after being arrested wearing an outlawed veil outside the Elysee Palace in the French capital on April 11. That was shortly after Nicolas Sarkozy’s government introduced a ban on all forms of Islamic head coverings, including the niqab and the burka. Ahmas was not allowed into the hearing at Meaux Criminal Court because she refused to remove her face covering. But prosecutors made it clear to her lawyer, Gilles Devers, that Ahmas now faces two years in prison and a £27,000 fine. ‘There is no possibility of me removing the veil,’ Ahmas said. ‘I’m not taking it off. The judge needs citizenship lessons, not me.’ Ahmas, who has already refused to pay a fine of around £100 for wearing a veil on another occasion, intends to take her case to the European Court of Human Rights. She has launched a pressure group, Do Not Touch My Constitution, along with Kenza Drider, another veil wearer who wants to run for president in the Spring. New law: Ahmas, 32, pictured with would-be presidential candidate Kenza Drider, is taking her case to the European Court of Human Rights. If Ahmas does become the first woman in the world to go to prison for wearing a veil, then it will be seen as a huge propaganda coup for Islamic-rights campaigners. Mr Sarkozy said the ban on head coverings was not aimed at persecuting Muslims, but merely to make France a more tolerant, inclusive society. When it was introduced, he said the ban was aimed at stopping criminals – from terrorists to shoplifters – disguising their faces from security staff and CCTV. But the sight of a young mother being led away to the cells merely because she refuses to take off her veil will cause outrage around the world. Mr Devers said the veil ban was ‘unconstitutional’, while senior police officers have told judges that it is unenforceable without persecuting women. France became the first country in Europe to outlaw the veil, while similar legislation has since been passed in Belgium and Holland. One has been mooted in Britain by a number of politicians, including Conservative backbenchers, but there are no immediate plans to introduce one. $8.5 Million Invested in Maldives Integrated Water Resource Project Government and UNDP sign project to deliver climate smart freshwater solutions for communities. The Ministry of Housing and Environment and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has signed a project today to invest USD 8.5 million, towards an initiative that will bring fresh water to communities on the densely populated islands of Haa Alif Ihavandhoo, Alif Dhaalu Mahibadhoo and Gaafu Dhaalu Gadhdhoo, with a view on country-wide replication and upscaling in the future. The financial resources for this project come from the Adaptation Fund under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The project will be implemented jointly by the Government, UNDP and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). China Discovers the Maldives Tourism keeps this nation of 1,200 islands afloat, and China is sending 22% of your visitors this year--almost twice as much as your second-biggest market, the U.K. What are you doing to keep this business coming? MOHAMED NASHEED: We have to learn about Chinese culture. There is so much to learn. China is on the rise, and the Chinese people are seeking where they want to go in the world. If we're not the place, we will lose out, and they will move on. But so far we are successful, and the future is bright. The Maldives are part of a trend of Chinese sampling higher-end, more remote spots--Fiji added flights to Hong Kong two years ago, switching its focus from Japan, where the market had leveled off. Do you expect the number of Chinese visitors to hit a ceiling or keep rising? The Durban Event The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change recently concluded in Durban, South Africa, was a massive gathering of (mostly) like-minded souls. Actually, it was the 17th of such gatherings, hence abbreviated as COP17. You may remember some of the earlier venues: Bali, Cancun, Copenhagen, Rio, Kyoto, etc. Among the 7,000+ (excluding media) registered participants of COP17, governments of most countries and lesser bodies were well represented. Environment Canada alone sent 25 or so representatives. However, countries that hope to extract “guilt money” from other nations via the carbon-dioxide global warming hoax, were most heavily in attendance. On a per capita basis, some of the Pacific island nations, which claim to be in danger of drowning from supposedly rising ocean levels but have steadily increasing populations, had the highest number of delegates. Table 1 below provides some insights. China and India Jockey for Influence in the Maldives Rivalry between two of the world’s emerging powers is taking shape in an unlikely place. The Maldives is known better as a honeymooners paradise than a place with foreign policy clout. But India and China are jockeying for influence in the Maldives, a tiny country of 1,200 islands scattered in the northern Indian Ocean. In the Maldives’ capital, Male’, there’s a new embassy in town. China is the first and only country outside of South Asia with a delegation in the country. With fewer than 400,000 people, the Maldives ranks just 179th in the world for GDP. But the Chinese love it. For a variety of reasons. Distortion of facts by Indian writer An article, entitled, “The olive branch from Pakistan, in its time of crisis” written by Indian writer Shruti Pandalai on November 17, 2011 as published on the website of Institute of Defence Studies & Analyses (IDSA) went unnoticed by Pakistan’s media. This article which has distorted facts in relation to Pak-Indian dialogue and other related issues, needs real analysis. In this article, Shruti Pandalai writes, “Indo-Pak relations since the diplomatic freeze after the Mumbai attacks in 2008, Pakistan has decided to confer the ‘Most Favoured Nation’ tatus to India. A few days ago, an Indian chopper which strayed into Pakistan was sent back without much chest-beating by Islamabad…dwindling coffers of a state[Pakistan] which has battled the worst form of fundamental terrorism.” Jumeirah opens second Maldives resort in 2011 The resort is located 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport, making it a convenient option for travellers visiting the Maldives. The property features 91 villa-suites, all with their own private pool. The resort introduces a variety of accommodation options on the island and over water, ranging from 184m2 to 800m2. Other highlights include three restaurants, a bar, a 1080 sq m Talise Spa and comprehensive facilities for young children and teenagers such as Sinbad’s Kids Club for children from two to 12 years of age, a teen club for those aged 12 and above, and a dedicated family and children’s pool adjacent to the Kids and Teens clubs BAK Big Guns Keep Title Hopes AliveSuresh, Faheem And Chandra & Jabbar Move Into Semis Suresh & Faheem and Chandra & Jabbar continued to maintain their fine form to earn a place in the semifinals of the top-most category of the Indian Badminton Association – Kuwait (IBAK) doubles tournament at the Saad Al Awzi in Salwa, Friday. These two pairs had earned a place in the quarter-finals after some excellent performances in the Elimination Round which saw them top their respective sections. Joining them in the semifinals are Bader & Arif N.N. and Samson and Febin who had finished second in their sections to earn a spot in the quarter-finals which saw them put up contrasting performances. The tournament has now moved into the last stages of the event with all the remaining matches to be played on the coming Friday, before IBAK takes a break from competitive tournaments this year.
Maldives: 'Islam' becoming an election issue? N Sathiya Moorthy
Two events in as many weeks, and Maldives has been making news, both on the home front and in the global arena, for reasons that had been better left untouched. Coming as they did after the successful SAARC Summit in the southern Addu City, these developments have the potential to become a major political and poll issue ahead of the presidential elections of 2013, if the current trends remain un-reversed. MDP exposes their reality by planning to protest against 23 December protest: BA Naseem
Local Islamic scholar, B.A Naseem has said that the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party has exposed their reality by planning a protest against the mass protest organized by Civil Society Coalition, opposition parties and religious organisations calling the government to protect the Islamic unity in Maldives. Prices of commodities will fall when dollar rate is stabilized: Inaz
Minister of Finance and Treasury, Ahmed Inaz has said that the prices of the commodities will fall when the dollar exchange rate isstablised and dollar is available in the banks. Inaz said that the local traders raise the prices of commodities by marginalizing the prices comparing it with the trends in the dollar exchange rate. He said that the reason for this is the dollar shortage. Inaz said that the solution to this is stabilizing the dollar exchange rate and utilizing local currency in all transactions made in the Maldives. He said 47 percent of the transactions are done in foreign currency. He added that it is high time that Maldivian Ruffiyais used in these transcations.
Police arrests heretical apostate
HilathRasheed
Police arrests Executive Editor of
Dhiislam
VP meets Senior members of FAIM
President attends Jury Meeting of Zayed
Future Energy Prize
President expresses concern over death threats to anti-Islamic activists
President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed his concern over the alleged death threats of “December 23 Mass protestors” to the anti-Islamic activists in Maldives. In response to an alleged death threat which was mistakenly uploaded on the official website of the December 23 mass protest organized by the Civil Society Coalition as one of the slogans of the protest, President Nasheed said that he should be killed first to kill any Maldivian. The President made this remark at a public rally of the ruling party, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), held in front of M. Fehige. President Nasheed said that the warnings to kill people in the website of the protest can never be accepted in anyway. “The website of the protest organized by Adhaalath Party, PPM and other groups has warned to kill the people of this country. This is a very serious matter. No Maldivian has the right to issue religious verdicts to kill any other Maldivian,” he said. Meanwhile, the website has openly stated that the alleged death threat was a slogan sent by some supporters of the protest from the people and was uploaded mistakenly. Adhaalath Party has also issued a press release clarifying the error and said that the party will never call for violence. The party said that the people are aware of this and that the people have witnessed this in the previous peaceful protests and demonstrations staged by the party. Recently a group of heretical apostates gathered at the Artificial Beach area on the claims of advocating for the freedom of religion in the Maldives. President Congratulates new Belgian Prime Minister President Mohamed Nasheed has congratulated Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo following his election to office. The President’s message to Prime Minister Di Rupo reads as follows: Quote: As you assume office as the Prime Minister of Belgium, the Government and the people of the Maldives join me in conveying our heartfelt congratulations to you. Belgium and the Maldives continue to enjoy friendly relations, and I am confident that we will be able to further strengthen our existing ties in the years ahead. Please also accept my personal best wishes for your good health and well being, and for greater prosperity for the people of Belgium under your leadership. Lacklustre performance PAKISTAN has slipped 20 rungs on the ladder of human development this year. Last year, Pakistan was ranked 125th on the Human Development Index (HDI) and was in the category of ‘medium human development’. This year Pakistan has been ranked 145 and thus falls in the category of ‘low human development’ countries. The latest annual Human Development Report of UNDP has ranked 187 countries on the HDI. Among the Saarc countries, Pakistan has performed better than Bangladesh (146), Afghanistan (172) and Nepal (157), whereas India (134), Sri Lanka (97), Bhutan (141) and the Maldives (109) have outshone Pakistan. No South Asian country is ranked in the ‘very high human development’ category though nearby Iran ranking at 88 falls in the category of ‘high human development’. Sri Lanka and the Maldives are the only two Saarc countries ranked among the countries in the ‘medium human development’ category. JSalaf calls the President to take action against Religious Freedom Activists JamiyyathSalaf has called President Mohamed Nasheed to take immediate action against the religious freedom activists who staged a protest at the artificial beach area last Saturday. In a press release of the organization issued yesterday, JamiyyathSalaf said that it has been several years since some apostates with the help of foreign parties have started a campaign to shatter the Islamic unity, independence and sovereignty of Maldives. The religious organization condemned the government for not taking any action against the few apostates who openly advocated for freedom of religion under the guise of calling for the protection of human rights in the Maldives. “We request the head of the government of Maldives Mohamed Nasheed to take immediate action against these individuals who violated the rights of Islam and violated the laws of this state by advocating the alleged right to practice false religions in Maldives,” JamiyyathSalaf said. JamiyyathSalaf also urged Islamic Ministry, Home Ministry, Maldives Police Service and all related authorities to take action against the heretical apostates. The organization headed by Abdullah bin Muhammad Ibrahim further called the Peoples’ Majlis to take necessary action against those authorities who fail to punish the heretics as stated in the law. “Protecting and defending Islam together in an unified pulse is important and virtuous than even fulfilling individual basic necessities of life such as eating and drinking,” JamiyyathSalaf said. Moreover, JamiyyathSalaf called the government to fully implement the Islamic Sharia rather than obstructing the practice of Sharia and advocating against it. India working towards allowing Maldivian visa renewals without exiting the country
First Secretary of Indian High Commission in Maldives, C.J Agharwal has said that India is working towards allowing Maldivians to renew their visa without exiting the country. Agharwal expressed hopes to solve the issue of the dependent visa. He said that the renewal of visas while in India would alleviate a lot of difficulties to Maldivians. The first secretary of the Indian High Commission made this remarkin view of the sudden policy change in defining of the term ‘dependent’ and the decision of India to no longer issue dependant visa to parents of students studying in India. According to the Foreign Ministry the dependent visa would only be issued to the husband and children of the student studying in India. An official of the ministry informed the media that the ministry has sent a draft agreement allowing for easier visa issuance to Maldivians. Heuze spearheads Coco Collection's global expansion FORMER Emaar Hospitality Group CEO, Patrick Heuze, has been appointed CEO of Sunland Hotels in the Maldives, a newly created position designed to steer the group's expansion of its Coco Collection in South and South-east Asia, Africa and Europe. Heuze, who previously oversaw the development of Emaar's luxury projects in key global cities and worked closely on expanding The Address brand, is now in charge of Sunland Hotels' assets and spearheading Coco Collection's rebranding and strategic development.In an email interview with TTG Asia e-Daily, Heuze explained that Coco Collection would be "a house of brands" incorporating resorts, retreats and hotels associated as five-star and above properties. A new brand for four-star properties is also in the works.Primary countries being targeted for expansion are Zanzibar, Kenya, Madagascar, Seychelles, Mauritius, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia and Vietnam. The common denominators for these destinations include natural beauty, seclusion, rich cultural and historical heritage, and that they offer "holistic" and "lifestyle" choices, said Heuze. "There is space for a brand that delivers a new offering and level of services in a market which is presently either covered by a large brand or individually owned properties,” he said. “The timing of this expansion is based on the emergence and continued growth of new feeder markets such as China, Brazil, India and Russia, and the anticipated growth of Africa as a leisure and corporate destination.” When queried about what was driving the expansion, Heuzesaid: "Opportunities are ripe for evaluating distress assets, but also (as a result of) the recent trend for developers and owners to consider alternative brands instead of relying on the big brands." Conrad Maldives hotel offers guests a chance to spot whale sharks TheConrad Maldives Rangali Island hotel has announced that it is once gain joining forces with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme. This unique partnership gives visitors to the resort a rare opportunity to view and interact with those amazing aquatic creatures while research is conducted on their behavior, migration patterns, and habitat. The whale shark is the largest fish on the planet, sometimes stretching as much as 40 feet in length and weighing over 20 tons. Despite their great size however, they are known to be docile and gentle creatures who inhabit warm ocean waters like those found in the Maldives. In fact, the island nation happens to be one of the few places on Earth where whale sharks are known to congregate year round. For the 5th year in a row, the MWSRP will be working in conjunction with the Conrad Maldives hotel on their research project, which will continue through February. Until that time, the hotel is offering its guests daily excursions out into the Indian Ocean to view whale sharks in their natural setting. The price of those excursions is $200, which includes transportation aboard a speedboat/luxury cruiser to dive and snorkeling sites that are inhabited by the large fish. For adventurous travelers who love interaction with unique animals, this is an amazing opportunity. Diving in the Maldives provides the chance to not only see the whale shark, but also manta rays, moray eels, grey reef sharks, and sea turtles. Having just returned from a trip to the Virgin Islands, during which snorkeling and diving were frequent activities, I can safely say that I would jump at the chance to do this as well.
People who believe Sharia conflicts with Humans Rights are confused”- President Nasheed President Mohamed Nasheed has said that those who believe that Sharia conflicts with fundamental human rights are clearly unable to comprehend or accept Sharia verdicts. The President made these remarks while speaking at the International Human Rights Day function held at Dharubaaruge last evening. In his speech, President Nasheed said that the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay’s recent visit to Male’ was a great opportunity for us to have talks with the UN on a global platform, on human rights issues and Islamic Sharia. He also pointed out that our scholars lost the chance as they had reacted in a provocative and “Jihadi” manner, even calling to harm the High Commissioner. The President noted that Islam stands for the dignity, honour, and nobility of mankind, on which Islamic Sharia is based on. However, he said that at times it is alleged that human rights contravene Islamic Sharia. Speaking at the function, President Nasheed said that it was the rights of the people that the government executes a feasible economic policy, and that the purpose of introducing taxation to the Maldives was to deliver these rights to the people. He said that the government always works to uphold human rights. Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam Appointed as the Non-Resident Ambassador to Kazakhstan
President Mohamed Nasheed has appointed Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam as the Non-Resident Ambassador of the Maldives to the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Adhaalath urges govt not to give second
chance to Maldivian apostates Not wise to base the salary raise on inflation rate: Gasim
Chair of the Budget Committee and the Maamigili MP, Gasim Ibrahim has said that it is not wise to make the inflation rate the basis for the salary raise. Speaking at the committee, Gasim said that there would be instances when the “belt should be tightly fastened” with the sudden changes in the economy. Gasim said that the country would be lead to an economic crisis if the changes in the inflation is made the basis for the changes in the salary when the state is run with a debt budget. Gasim said that the country could only reach success in times of difficulty only when the people patiently preserve in such times. Gasim also criticized the wage system of the independent institutions. He said that some institutions follow no regulations in allocating their wages because they have been given that authority by the state.
Protecting Islam is an individual obligation upon all Maldivians: Ilyas
Protecting Islam, the foundation of the independence and sovereignty of Maldives, is an individual obligation upon all Maldives, says Sheikh Ilyas. Ilyas said that it is not permissible to stay silent without doing anything to defend the religion of Islam at a time when wicked plans are being carried out to demolish Islam. Sharia rules are not inhumane: President
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that he does not believe that the rulings and punishments prescribed in the Islamic Sharia are not inhumane. Speaking in regard to the World Human Rights Day, President Nasheed said that human beings are most exalted creation of Allah and that he does not believe that any punishment prescribed in the religion would be inhumane and barbaric. The president said that the Maldivian government wanted to discuss the beauty of Islam with the UN Chief of Human Rights, Navi Pillay, but this opportunity was wasted by some people with their “Jihadi spirit.” He said that the government would always uphold Islam and would strive to show the world how noble and beautiful Islam is.
Indians stunned as 94 die in hospital fire
So far, GMR has done nothing but bad for
the people of Maldives: Dr. Jameel
President expresses Hopes for
Investigation of Torture against Inmates
Morocco's PM-elect: no Islamic dress code
for women
It would be difficult for South Asia to
live in harmony, without SAARC: Nasheed
President calls for prioritised
investigation of corruption allegations against former and current govt
Maldives urges world nations to reach a
legally binding agreement by no later than 2015
Important to ensure everyone has the
chance to promote human rights: UK High Commissioner
President’s Weekly Radio Address: President expresses Hopes for Investigation of Torture against Inmates President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed his hopes for full-fledged investigation of torture against inmates in the Maldives, by the Human Rights Commission. Speaking in regard to the World Human Rights Day to be marked tomorrow, the President said that the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives has so far failed to conduct a full investigation of torture faced at prisons in the country. In his radio address delivered this morning, President Nasheed also noted that for a country to grasp advancement and development, it was essential for its people to be thoroughly informed with their country history, and for them to be able to accept President Nasheed: “It would be Difficult for South Asia to live in Harmony, without SAARC”
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that a harmonious life in the South Asian region would be difficult without SAARC. Speaking at the ceremony held on the occasion of the 26th Charter Day of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, President Nasheed spoke on the work being done on assessing the SAARC charter. Noting that a number of initiatives have now taken place in attempts to reformulate the charter, he said Maldives as SAARC’s Chair, is expending every effort in improving the charter, as the need to do so is imperative and urgent. The President said that SAARC needs to be more relevant to its people and that SAARC leaders must be able to address the demands, dreams and aspirations of their people.
Kingfisher Airlines, Jet Airways, GMR
stocks dumped as firms hit turbulence
Nargis takes a dive
Youth have vital role in eradicating
corruption: Speakers
ADC a common concept in many airports
Opening of New Airline Office Complex: one
of the many improvements to INIA’s existing terminal facilities
Civil Court invalidates US$25 collected from passengers The Civil Court has yesterday invalidated the US$25 collected from international passengers, foreign and local, as airport development charge by GMR Infrastructure. Civil Court ruled as such against GMR in a case filed by the Deputy President of opposition Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP). Civil Court verdict said that GMR is not authorized to take any fee from the passengers which contravenes the Airport Service Charge Act. “Since it was passed in 2009 to take US$ 18.5 from every foreign passenger and US$ 12 from every local passenger above the age of two under the amendments to the Airports Service Charge Act, it is not legal to take any tax that exceeds these values under other names,” the verdict stated. The government and GMR agreed on June 2010 to collect US$25 as Airport Development Charge and US$2 as Insurance Charge commencing January 2012.
Hospital fire in Indian city of Kolkata
kills 61 President requests to investigate cases of corruption of the former and current government
President Mohamed Nasheed has requested the respected authorities to investigate the cases of corruption involving the former and current government. The President made this remark in his message on the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day. Highlighting the importance his administration accords to preventing of corruption, President said all its policies are therefore centred towards this goal. The President further urged the public and private sectors to work more closely with the government on this issue. The President, in his message, also called on all government offices to give their full cooperation to the Anti-Corruption Commission in its efforts to combat corruption. “I do not believe that the cases of corruption involving the former government should be left uninvestigated,” he said. Furthermore President Nasheed added that all government activities must also be conducted in a transparent accountable manner.
DRP
to follow AP concerning Israeli flights issue MMA and Banks should take drastic measures to stop money laundering: Luthfi
Chair of the Anti-Corruption Commission, Hassan Luthfi has said that the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) and the Banks should take drastic measures to stop money laundering. Speaking on a DhiTVprogramme, Luthfi said that the recent swap of MRF18 million twice from a state bank account to another Bank’s account is a case of money laundering. He said that the Bank is partly responsible for this. Luthfi said that the cash drawers would not have enough cash to give to customer who seeks to withdraw millions of Ruffiya. He said that this could be done only under a certain procedure. He said that it is important to use cheques when withdrawing large sums of money. Luthfi underscored the importance of putting in place a strong legal, regulatory and institutional framework to counter money laundering. Luthfi noted that the ACC does not have the legal authority to combat money laundering although it is an act of corruption. Meanwhile, Thimarafushi MP, Mohamed Mustafa recently said that the Banks will require those leaving the country to declare large amounts of money to improve monitoring of suspicious cash flows. He said that this is the age of stealing money using technology and that today people do not rob banks using weapons. Mustafa said that if the people leaving the country with large amounts of money are not required to declare the money than those who rob banks could easily flee away from the country. One of the biggest challenges facing the region is the threat of religious fundamentalism: Naseem
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Naseem has said that the threat of religious fundamentalism is one of the biggest challenges facing the region. Minister Naseem made the remark at the reception held to celebrate the twenty sixth SAARC Charter day. “One of the biggest challenges facing the region today is the threat of religious fundamentalism in its various forms. It is critical that all member countries work together to address this daunting challenge,” he said. Minister Naseem said that it is to this effect that the Maldives decided to host the SAARC Summit in Addy City this year. He said that this is a symbolic gesture in bringing SAARC closer to its people and expose them to the richness of the cultures of the region. “The barriers of intolerance between different groups of people in the region can only be broken through closer cultural exchanges and people to people contact,” he said.
Ambassador Ali HussainDidi attends the
Welcoming Ceremony at the Intl Criminal Court
Maldives, Nepal book semifinal berth in SAFF Championship Former champions Maldives rode on Ahmed Tariq's double strike to defeatBangladesh 3-1 and advance to the semifinals of the SAFF Football Championship along withNepal on Tuesday. Man of the match Tariq found the net in the sixth and 16th minute while Ali Ashfaq added one to his name by scoring in the 70th minute. For Bangladesh, Md Shahedul Alam Shahed struck the lone goal at the half hour mark. While Maldives finished group B on top thanks to a better goal difference, Nepal advanced to the last-four stage as the second best team from the pool. The Himalayan nation held Pakistan to a 1-1 draw in the day's earlier match at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium. Sheikh Imran receives death threats
President of the opposition Adhaalath Party, Sheikh Imran Abdullah has been receiving death threats through phone calls and text messages. Sheikh Imran confirmed the reports when Miadhu Daily asked him regarding it. He said that he was warned of death if he participates in the “To protect Islam” demonstrations organized by the Civil Society Coalition. Adhaalath Part’s President said that he has been receiving such threats through phone calls and text messages for some time. “I do not disclose these phone and text death threats. However, two three nights back a man called and threatened me that he would slash me to death if I participate in the December 23 mass protest. When I received the call, there were some friends. So this is how it has reached the media,” he said. Sheikh Imran said that freedom of assembly is a right given by the Constitution and that no has the authority to intimidate and threaten any one for participating in a protest. Meanwhile, many political parties and local NGOs have been urging the people to participate in the mass protest to be held on December 23 against the anti-Islamic policies of the current Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government. Opposition Jumhooree Party leader, Gasim Ibrahim also recently called the people to participate in the protest. Adhaalath Party assured the public that the people of Addu City are unified to purify Addu City from the idolatrous monuments held in the districts of the city by the government.
Maldives coach Urbanyi delighted with the
win President inaugurates Dhiraagu domestic submarine cable laying process
President Mohamed Nasheed has yesterday, on the 6th of December, 2011, inaugurated the cable laying process under Dhiraagu Domestic Submarine Cable Network Project at H. Dh. Kulhuduffushi. The inauguration took place with the pulling of the cable ashore by the President and key dignitaries, which was laid from the submarine cable ship. On the 15 of March, this year, Dhiraagu signed a contract with NEC Corporation to lay a Fibre Optic Submarine Cable network system from North to South across the Maldives scheduled to be delivered in 15 months. After completion of necessary surveys, and making the respective substations ready, Dhiraagu is pleased with the commencement of the cable laying process which took place today as scheduled. With Kulhuduffushi, as the starting point, Dhiraagu will continue with the process in the rest of the regions and plans to complete the cable laying process by December, 2011. Following this, Dhiraagu will proceed with cable testing and other related works. Along with Dhiraagu’s currently established operation centres, the network will strategically include 8 regions, connecting the whole Maldives from North to South through a 1253 km length fibre optic submarine cable. With the implementation of this project, quality of service will be significantly enhanced. It will also offer high-speed broadband internet service that will facilitate services such as e-health, telemedicine, e-government and other online services in the country, which would bring immense socio-economic benefits across the entire Maldives. It is a significant project under the umbrella of Dhiraagu High-speed Network Rollout Program to expand Broadband Service across the country. Also under this program, Dhiraagu plans to enhance microwave network, 3G, wireless broadband services and to upgrade the internet core network. Dhiraagu has planned to invest a total of about USD 70 million over the next 5 years, to deliver this program across the entire Maldives. Mobs attack residence of opposition leader
Opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) has informed that mobs have attacked the residence of DRP Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali and the DRP Haruga last evening. DRP said that attacks on DRP Haruge have increased on recent times and that some people have been trying to sow discord during public rallies of the party. The party also informed that mobs have tried to obstruct a DRP rally thrice last Wednesday night. A death threat against DRP Leader Ahmed Thasmeen was sent on fifth December warning DRP of suicide attacks if Thasmeen participates in any of the party’s public rallies. “These attacks are lowly cowardly actions perpetrated to intimidate and threated DRP Leader and DRP. A case has been filed in the Police regarding this matter. Even with these attacks, DRP is not the least threatened and will remain steadfast in working collectively, the Leader and the members, to win the 2013 Presidential Election,” the party said.
Yaamin and Gasim’s case again sent to PG
Maldives Becomes Member of International
Organisation for Migration
Kulliya announces admission for 2012 First
Semester Intake
Developing islands concurrently with other projects is a failure- Dr. Mausoom Kelaa constituency MP, Dr. Ahmed Mausoom has said that developing the islands concurrently with other projects such as developing tourist resorts and sewerage infrastructure projects is a failed system. Dr. Mausoom said that the earlier regime also failed in developing the islands using this system. He said that if the intention of the government is to sincerely serve the people, then the government should finance the developments of the islands from the state budget since the income of the government has increased with the implementation of different taxation programs. Dr. Mausoom underscored the importance of cutting down the government expenditure and stop wasting the state income to achieve political agendas. The Kelaa MP urged the government to focus on lowering state expenditure, minimising debt, and providing the people with social security and other public welfare services. Dr. Mausoom criticized the government for allocating only a small percentage for the administration of councils in the state budget proposed for the coming year. He said that the councils cannot run efficiently with a small budget. He called for the resignation of all the council members from the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). Dr. Mausoom also said that it is important that the government expends majority of the budget on the development of the healthcare and education sector.
Govt always aims at strengthening
religious faith- Nasheed
Gasim urges all to participate in Dec 23
mass protest
No country can beat Maldives in
corruption- Mustafa
AG denies allegations of Gadhoo Court
Money declaration important to combat
money laundering -Mustafa
President lays foundation for new friday
mosque in Maarandhoo
JOVC volunteers awarding ceremony held
Anticipated price changes to essential
food products published
President Nasheed ready to investigate charges of corruption against government President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed concern over the allegations of corruption against the government. President’s Office’s Chief of Staff, Ahmed Mausoom sent a letter addressed to Hoarafushi MP Ahmed Rasheed, Thimarafushi MP Mohamed Mustafa, FuahMulaku MP Shifag Mufeed mentioning the concern of the President over their claims of corruption against the government. President’s Office revealed that President Nasheed requested the three members of the Peoples’ Majlis to provide detailed proofs and documents to back their allegations against the government as soon as possible. He said that the government is in dire need of the full cooperation of the three MPs. Mustafa who is from the ruling party recently alleged that the government was importing cheap medical products from China and selling them at high prices claiming that they were imported from Germany. He also said that some senior members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) were granted a loan of MRF12 million to import medicine but not a single tablet has been imported so far. Shifag expressed concern over the many allegations of corruption against the government. He said that top officials of MDP, who are charged with corruption, have even been taken to account. Hoarafushi MP Ahmed Rasheed also recently said that corruption is rampant in the government and that nothing has been done to stop it.
Maldives' low standing on the corruption
index poses a threat to the country- Luthfi
Price of commodities will fall at the end
of February- Nasir
President departs on a tour of Thiladhunmathi Atoll President Mohamed Nasheed has this afternoon departed on a tour of some islands of North and South Thiladhunmathi Atoll. During this visit, the President is scheduled to visit the islands of Kelaa, Ihavandhoo and Maarandhoo of North Thiladhunmathi, and Vaikaradhoo and Kulhudhuffushi of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll. The President will meet with the island councils and discuss the government’s developmental plans for the islands. President Nasheed will also attend the “Dhiraagu High-Speed Network Rollout Programme” in Kulhudhuffushi.
President’s Weekly Radio Address: “2012 is
going to be a Duty Free year”
The Maldives Need Action at Durban
Conference on Climate Change
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Centara Maldives resort wins Virgin
Holidays Golden Award
Rasdhoo Divers Presents the Dive Centre
Nothing can be rectified if corruption exists in the govt-Mustafa
Thimarafushi MP, Mohamed Mustafa has said that true rectification cannot be brought to the country if corruption continues to exist in the government. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Mustafa said that some top officials of the government have been stealing from the state revenue. Explaining his accusations, Mustafa said that the current bill on medical devices proposed to the Peoples’ Majlis was proposed by such people for their own benefit.
Maldives Voted Favourite Worldwide Beach
Destination
UN expert starts probing rights violations
in Iran
“The Maldivian” band nominated to
participate in the South Asian Band Festival Diva reintroduces itself as Lux* Maldives
(Maldivestraveller.mv): Rechristening itself as Lux* Maldives starting December 1, the famous Diva Maldives is set to bend every rule in the book. Promoting itself as a ‘light-hearted, light-footed’ island resort, the brand’s all-new approach may just break the shackles of monotony it feels has trickled into the hospitality industry. “It’s like a sea of sameness out there,” said Dominik Rul, general manager, Lux* Maldives, addressing the media at the meet held at Traders Hotel Malé on Wednesday. “We realised that in order to be different, we have to take certain drastic steps. Luxury is over-rated, so we wanted to give our clients something they don’t expect from a five-star resort based in the Maldives. We want to help them celebrate life in its simplest form.”
HIV/AIDS is becoming a manageable chronic
disease: WHO
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