Rinbudhoo people will decide their future – President

President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has said that the people of Rinbudhoo will decide their future. He spoke on this issue because the previous government tried to shift the people of Rinbudhoo to another island and make Rinbudhoo an uninhabited island. Dr.Waheed said the government will accept any decision taken by the people of the island. During his tour to South Nilandhe Atoll and making a visit to Rinbudhoo, Dr.Waheed told the people of the island to make a righteous decision regarding the change to another island policy. He said to the people to look into the facilities they have got in their island and to think wisely and discuss on this issue.

JP sends a letter to government regarding Gan airport issue.

Jumhooree party has sent a letter to President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik regarding the handing over of Gan airport to the private sector. In the letter, Leader of Jumhooree party Qasim Ibrahim said that it is not right to give Gan airport to a private party. He also said the party council unanimously disagree on giving the airport. Qasim Ibrahim said that the acting committee of the party decided to send a letter regarding this because JP totally is against of giving the airport to a private party or against the selling of the airport. He said the letter will be handed over to President Waheed when the government will be opened after eid holidays. According to Qasim Ibrahim, if Gan airport is given to a private party, the people of Addu atoll will face the consequences and this will affect the country. Qasim said if the airport is given to a private party, then the party will sell the airport to foreign company. And talking about the consequences that the people of Addu will face, Qasim said the foreign company will increase the service rates and when the people of Addu cannot afford the prices, they will start protesting. He said then we have to take back the airport form the foreign company by giving extra amount of money.

Thiladhunamthi plays a vital role in bringing reforms to the country – Fuvad Qasim

Council member of Jumhooree party Fuvad Qasim has said that everytime Thiladhunmathi plays a vital role in bringing reforms to the country. Speaking at the inauguration of Nooru gofi in Thilandhumathi Nolhivaram, Fuad Qasim said we can see the work done by Thiladhunmathi in getting reforms to the country from the era of of the Portugese in Maldives to the year 2008. He said he is from Thiladhunmathi and he firmly believe in bringing reforms by the people of the area this time too. He said the people of the region will make their best in bringing reforms to the election which will be held next year.

Heavy rain causes nationwide devastation

Strong winds with heavy rainfall and rough seas are being experienced in all parts of the country causing severe damage to property. Dhanbindhoo council’s President AbdulHaseeb informed Miadhu Daily that the island was struck with a tornado at about 9:15 in the morning causing considerable damages. He said that a roof of a house was blown away and now the youth have repaired the roof. Haseeb said that the roof of a storage house was also blown during the tornado attack. He said that precautionary measures have been taken in case the island is flooded due to the heavy rain.

President underscores importance of proper upbringing to secure good human resources

P resident Dr Mohamed Waheed has yesterday visited the island of Maa-en’boodhoo of Dhaalu Atoll, as part of his current tour of the atoll. Addressing the people of the island, the President said that the most important work to be done in securing good human resources was to give our children proper upbringing through the education system. Highlighting the importance given by the leaders and the people of Maa-en’boodhoo to education, the President said that the exemplary unity and brotherhood that was among the people of the island was the result of the high regard given to education by the leaders of the island, and the special attention given in upbringing the children. In his speech, the President highlighted the many areas where Maa-en’boodhoo was in need of development, and spoke on the government’s plans to achieve those goals. The President’s next stop was Kudahuvadhoo of Dhaalu Atoll. The President also met the people of Kudahuvadhoo during his visit.

Gasim to provide dredger free of charge for the development of Gan Airport

Villa groups Chairman, local philanthropist Gasim Ibrahim has said that he is ready to provide dredger free of charge for the development of Gan Airport. Gaism said that Gan Airport is an invaluable asset of the people of Addu City and it is necessary to protect and safeguard the airport for the people of Addu. He said that this project will cost a lot and he is ready to help in any way he could. He said that he will provide all help in land reclamation. “We have two dredgers. I am more than happy to provide them free of charge for this project,” he said. Gasim said that records show that all the possessions in Gan Airport costs about 200 million US dollars and it is unjust to lease 30 percent of it for only 3.6 million dollars. “The state has granted this asset to three companies of the government for free. So when 30 percent of it is sold to a public company the seller will get it without having to pay any fee to the government. This cannot be accepted,” he said. Gasim said that the Gan Airport is the right of the people of Addu City and they should benefit from this. “In other world countries, regional airports are not managed by the main government. But by the city. Therefore, when Addu City will be getting the airport it is a great loss for the people of Addu that it is not under the government’s authority,” he said.

No political crimes are stipulated in Maldivian law- Dr. Hassan Saeed

President’s Advisor Dr. Hassan Saeed has said that the constitution does not stipulate any political crimes and therefore in Maldives no one will be charged under what is called “political crimes”. Dr. Hassan Saeed said that kidnapping is a crime in every country and the charges against former President Mohamed Nasheed is very clear. He said that Nasheed perpetrated the crime during his rule and now he is accusing that the charges against him are politically motivated to distort the reality. He said that Nasheed is seeking help from foreign countries to clear him off the charges and to pull the wool over the eyes of the public. Dr. Hassan Saeed said that Maldives is a independent and sovereign state and Nasheed cannot clear the charges no matter how much he tries. He added that Nasheed will be subject to punishment in accordance to the law. “No matter how powerful the country, the trial against Nasheed cannot be obstructed. Nasheed’s crime is regarded as a crime in all world countries,” he said.

Securing a majority will help in adjusting the judiciary- Moosa Manik

Chairperson of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Hulhuhenveiru MP Moosa Manik has said that when MDP secures the majority seats in the Peoples’ Majlis the party will be able to make the adjustments to the judiciary. Moosa Manik said that when the MDP secures the majority in the next Majlis elections the judges summoned to the Majlis will have to attend the session and will have to obey every word of the party. Moreover, Moosa Manik said that he is confident that MDP will win a clear majority in the Majlis in the next parliamentary elections. He said that the current judiciary is run by the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) and MDP will sack the unfit judges. Moosa Manik stressed that every individual will have to attend the summons of the committees of the Peoples’ Majlis. He said that this has been stated very clearly by the Supreme Court in the year 2011. The unknown reasons from Mr. Moosa Maniku’s speech is why MDP did not do all such adjustments while MDP was having the majority for 3 years in the Pariliament. And why President Nasheed did not even propose Majlis to bring such adjustments while he had full power and full control of the Majlis.

Envoys sent to North and South islands which were devastated by heavy rain
President Dr Mohamed Waheed has decided to send two Special Envoys to some islands in the North and South which were devastated by heavy rain. The President has decided to send Mr Ibrahim Lutfy, Advisor at the President’s Office to some islands in the South and Mr Mohamed Saleem, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs to some island in the North of the Maldives. During the visit, both the Envoys will inquire about the current situation of the islands and gather information on the people’s immediate requirements.

Cabinet Proposes Establishment of “National Institute for Education”
The Cabinet has yesterday proposed the President to establish a new “National Institute for Education”. This proposal was made following a series of round-table discussions on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Education. Deliberating on this issue, Members of the Cabinet commented on the importance of shifting governmental focus to strengthening state efforts, provided the recent expansion of the education sector. Some members shared their observations on the current need for further developing human resources and improving the accessibility of higher education for those deprived of it. Some members drew on the stark parallels between the chief functions of Educational Development Centre (EDC) and Centre for Continuing Education (CCE), being run under the supervision of Ministry of Education. Hence, it was strongly favored that the integration of these two separate institutions to form “National Institute for Education”, would ultimately lead to greater progress being achieved in the education sector.

Majlis adjourned due to lack of quorum
The Thirteenth Sitting of the Third Session of the People’s Majlis was adjourned today due to loss of quorum. Ahmed Nazim, MP, Dhiggaru Constituency, presided over yesterday’s Sitting. Proceedings began with twenty MPs present. However, recurring loss of quorum led to adjournment while debate was underway on a declaration tabled by Ahmed Smaeer, MP, Dhi’dhoo. The declaration calls on the parliament to probe issue of a loan of MRF 300 million taken by the government from the Bank of Maldives (BML) for State Funds, allegedly transgressing the Public Accounts Act. It accuses the government of presenting falsified reports in order to receive parliamentary consent to the loan. The declaration specifically requests for investigation of actions of President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik, and Minister of Finance and Treasury, Abdulla Jihad. Yesterday’s Sitting had first considered the Bill on Right to Silence, tabled by Mohamed Nasheed, MP, South Kulhudhufushi. The People’s Majlis will meet again on 31 October 2012.

Ameerul Hajj Nazim meets the pilgrims and the students studying in Saudi
Ameerul Hajj Col. (ret) Mahamed Nazim met the pilgrims and the students studying in Saudi Arabia on the night of 27th October. During the meeting, Col. (ret) Mohamed Nazim inquired from the pilgrims the challenges and hardships faced by the pilgrims and assured them that he would do his utmost to find solutions to their problems. He also inquired about the challenges and problems faced by the Maldivian students studying in Saudi Arabia and assured them that he would bring these issues to the government’s attention. He also assured the students that he would also assist the authorities in solving their issues. He thanked the students for their continued assistance to the pilgrims.

Cabinet reshuffle: From 'K-Plan' to '2-K Plan'
N Sathiya Moorthy
If there is one thing that the weekend reshuffle of Ministers and portfolios may have done for the image of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's Government, it is to put the recent past behind in terms of political charges of corruption and non-performance. With that also ends all excuses that may be available to a Prime Minister in his place, to deflect criticism, if any, in the coming weeks and months, as the nation and his ruling Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA), prepares to face the tough parliamentary polls ahead. Despite media predictions and electoral hopes of the BJP-NDA, the Congress-UPA victories in the parliamentary polls of 2004 and 2009 were not exactly shocking or unpredictable. Those who did not want to see the writing on the wall did not see it. Those who read it, did not want to speak it lest they should be proved wrong at the end and ridiculed for their wrong predictions. Of the two elections, the first one was 'Sonia Gandhi's election and victory', and the latter that of Manmohan Singh as Prime Minister. Today, there is even more of Manmohan Singh in electoral terms for the Congress to prove to the country, its existing allies to begin with.

Tutu: Bush, Blair should face trial at the Hague.
By David Stringer, The Associated Press | The Canadian Press
LONDON - Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Desmond Tutu called Sunday for Tony Blair and George Bush to face prosecution at the International Criminal Court for their role in the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. Tutu, the retired Anglican Church’s archbishop of South Africa, wrote in an op-ed piece for The Observer newspaper that the ex-leaders of Britain and the United States should be made to “answer for their actions.”. The Iraq war “has destabilized and polarized the world to a greater extent than any other conflict in history,” wrote Tutu, who was awarded the Nobel prize in 1984.

More On Savage Israel — An Analysis by Lawrence Davidson.
Part I – Savagery On-Going
In my last analysis I noted that a Zionist organization run by the Islamophobe Pamela Geller is posting messages on buses and subways calling for support for Israel. The messages claim that Israel represents the “civilized man” in a struggle against Jihadist “savagery.” I questioned Israel’s qualifications for civilized status in the earlier piece, but am drawn back to the subject by the almost daily revelations of the Zionist state’s questionable behavior. It is not that the Jihadist cannot be a savage at times, it is that the Israeli government seems quite incapable of being civilized. For instance:

Dusit Thani Environmental Performance In Maldives
In an important milestone, the environmental performance of Dusit Thani Maldives has been recognised by EarthCheck; the travel and tourism industry’s leading environmental management, benchmarking and certification company. EarthCheck operates the world’s most scientifically rigorous benchmarking program and measures key indicators such as energy and water consumption, total waste production, and community commitment to provide a holistic picture of operational performance.

Gaathafushi - W Maldives Own Private Island
Steal away to Gaathafushi, W Retreat & Spa Maldives own private island.
W Maldives guests have their own tropical playground when reserving Gaathafushi. The island is yours, for the day or for an overnight ‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience. Indulge in exquisite serenity while exploring the surrounding silent lagoon or hang out on the signature W Bed under a thatched roof. Unwind like never before while your own private chef sets up a special candle light BBQ as the sun dips over the horizon. Wake up as the sun rises and sample Chef Nikolaj’s innovative breakfast cuisine.

Applications for 2013/14 Chevening and Sri Lanka/Maldives Chevening Cambridge Scholarships now open
Applications for Chevening Scholarships – the prestigious global scholarship programme of the UK government – as well as the Cambridge Commonwealth Trust (CCT) co-funded Sri Lanka/Maldives Chevening Cambridge Scholarships are now open. The application period runs from Monday, 29 October to Thursday, 20 December, 2012. Chevening Scholarships are the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations. The Chevening programme began in 1983 and has developed into a prestigious international scheme. Scholars come from 116 countries worldwide and 700 scholarships were awarded in 2011-2012. There are over 41,000 Chevening alumni around the world who together comprise an influential and highly regarded global network

Lonely Planet's Maldives guide
UNRIVALLED luxury, stunning white-sand beaches and an amazing underwater world make the Maldives an obvious choice for a true holiday of a lifetime. Unbelievable beaches. The Maldives is home to perhaps the best beaches in the world; they're on almost every one of the country's nearly 1200 islands and are so consistently perfect that it's hard not to become blase about them. While some beaches may boast softer granules than others, the basic fact remains: you'll find this whiter-than-white powder sand and luminous cyan-blue water almost nowhere else on Earth.

                 30 October 2012 | Tuesday              

Our highest priority in executing democracy should be to maintain harmony- President

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that our highest priority in executing the democratic system should be to maintain harmony among the people. The President made this remark while speaking to the people of Hulhudheli of Dhaalu Atoll, as the last stop of his tour of some islands in Dhaalu Atoll. Noting that splitting up societies was completely against the norms of democracy, the President said that in the last couple of years the Maldives experienced democracy to be something that divides communities and creates conflict.

Maldives is in need of a third ideology, Gasim’s ideology- Gasim

Jumhooree Party leader Gasim Ibrahim has said that the Maldives is now in need of a third ideology after the ideology of the former Presidents Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and Mohamed Nasheed. He said that the third ideology is the ideology of Gasim. Gasim Ibrahim made this remark speaking at the ceremony held to inaugurate Jumhooree Party’s Noor branch in H.Dh. Nolhivaram. “Gasim’s ideology is that no person in Maldives should leave this world because he or she did not get proper medical treatment. Gasim’s ideology is to open opportunities for higher education for every student even if the student does not have the financial means to achieve it. Gasim’s ideology is to establish justice and equality. Gasim’s ideology is to establish harmony among the people and to establish Islamic principles,” he said.

Life imprisonment for a foreigner who brought drugs to Maldives
Criminal Court has given life imprisonment sentence for a Bangladeshi for bringing drugs to Maldives. According to Criminal Court, Fareedhudheen who came to Maldives via Malaysian Airlines to Male on June 30, 2011 has accepted that he had brought drugs to Maldives during the trial. And also during the interrogation, police came to know that he had 321.9000 gram cannabis. Fareedhudheen was given the sentence of life imprisonment because he had committed this crime when the new laws on drug traffickers was not established.

8 people sentenced for 7 years for giving damages to VTV
Criminal court has sentenced 8 people for 7 years in jail for giving damages to VTV and the police who were giving security to VTV and its staff. The 8 people who gave damages to VTV on March 19th are Ahmed Naeem of H.Ladhumaage, Ismail Hamaad of Fehiali R.Maduvaree, Hussein Shifau Jameel of M.Nooruzeyru, Ghaanim Hassan of AA.Feridhoo Azaadhuge, Ahmed Hameed and Hussein Hameed of R.Alifushi Hameedhee Manzil, Ahmed Muheen of G.Haalam and Mohamed Hameed of Male Dhaftharu 7471.

Shouldn’t stand still when the situation is like this – Qasim

Leader of JUmhooree party Mr.Qasim Ibrahim has said that we shouldn’t stand still when the crime rate is getting high and when murdering is getting common in the country. Speaking to the youths of Machangolhi who joined Juhooree party recently, Qasim said it is indeed very sad that now we Maldivians are facing what we haven’t faced in the entire history of the country. He also said that it is compulsory for every citizen of the country to join in the work of establishing peace in the country and it is very important to participate the youths of the country in this work.

Adaalath will work to eradicate the reasons for committing crimes – Shaheem
Islamic Minister Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that Adaalath party will work on eradicating the reasons for committing crimes. Speaking about the manifesto Adaalath party will have for the next presidential election, the spokesman of the party Sheikh Shaheem said if we need to eradicate what we don’t want, we have to first identify and diagnose the reasons. Speaking at the newsconference Sheikh Shaheem said the main reason for people to commit crimes in the country is the introduction of drugs in the country. So, he said the first thing to be done in this will be to identify the routes and ways on getting drugs to the country and then to eliminate it.

Have the money to pay for electricity bills and for salary – government
Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that the government has money to pay salaries for the employees and the money for paying electricity bills of some of the institutions. Abbas said the government do have financial problems but the institutions and STELCO have discussed with the electricity problem and STELCO had given the institutions a duration of 90 days to pay the bills. And the latest problem of cutting the electricity from some of the institutions came into light because the systems in STELCO was not fed up with the right decisions, he said. Abbas described the incident which happened in TVM as a stunt by some people who wanted to get some photos. Abbas said its TVM’s duty to deal with the problem as STELCO had given them some duration to solve the problem. STELCO has informed people who cannot pay the bills to consult with them.

MDP member calls on to abolish the People’s Majlis
North Machangolhi constituency member of the Majlis Mohamed Rasheed (Kubey) has called on to abolish the People’s Majlis. Kubey who is an MDP member told the Majlis that the previous government was toppled down and the existing government came to power with a coup. He told we should not make laws for such a government. He also said that there is no need of the existing peoples majlis and we don’t have to cooperate with the coup government. Though members are saying that it is a government which came by a coup, the CoNi report made by the commonwealth representatives and the member of former President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the government did not come with a coup. Ex President Nasheed also has accepted the CoNi report.

IPU to send human rights mission to Maldives
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) will be sending fact-finding missions to the Maldives as part of renewed efforts to resolve cases involving the human rights of MPs. The decision was adopted by the IPU during its 127th Assembly in Quebec City, Canada, upon the recommendation of its Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians. In IPU’s press release on 24 October 2012, it expressed deep concern at the on-going climate of violence and confrontation in the Maldives, expressing shock at the recent killing of the late Dr. Afrasheem Ali, MP for Un’goofaaru constituency. IPU also expressed deep concern on the resolution on grievances filed by 19 MPs from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). The IPU mission to the Maldives will gather first-hand information. At the invitation of the Maldives government, it will meet with all institutions of the State as well as the MPs concerned. The IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians examined 37 cases involving 135 MPs from 21 different countries in this session and took decisions on 20 of the cases. During the 127 General Assembly, the Committee has held a hearing with the delegation from Maldives.

President Waheed meets the people of Maa-en’boodhoo

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has visited the island of Maa-en’boodhoo of Dhaalu Atoll, as part of his current tour of the atoll. Addressing the people of the island, the President said that the most important work to be done in securing good human resources was to give our children proper upbringing through the education system. Highlighting the importance given by the leaders and the people of Maa-en’boodhoo to education, the President said that the exemplary unity and brotherhood that was among the people of the island was the result of the high regard given to education by the leaders of the island, and the special attention given in upbringing the children. In his speech, the President highlighted the many areas where Maa-en’boodhoo was in need of development, and spoke on the government’s plans to achieve those goals. The President’s next stop was Kudahuvadhoo of Dhaalu Atoll. The President also met the people of Kudahuvadhoo during his visit.

We will not sell off state property to foreigners, to balance our budget- President
President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that this administration would not sell off state property or the islands to foreigners, to balance our budget. The President made this remark while speaking to the people of Meedhoo, as part of his current visit to some islands in Dhaalu Atoll. The President said that in working towards achieving our goals, we should put forward unity and teamwork, and that by working together we could achieve all our goals. Speaking in this regard, the President reassured that this administration did not discriminate against anyone, and that what the Maldives needed today was not different colors. He further said that today the country needs for everyone to work together under the national flag, and move forward.

                 26 October 2012 | Friday              

President and First Lady depart to Faafu Nilandhoo and some islands in Dhaalu Atoll

President Dr Mohamed Waheed and First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain have this afternoon departed on a visit to Nilandhoo of Faafu Atoll, and some islands in Dhaalu Atoll. The President and the First Lady will attend the activities to be carried out in the islands as part of Al’haa Eid celebrations.

President Waheed Extends Greetings on Eid ul-Al’haa

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has extended greetings to the people of the Maldives, and Leaders of Islamic countries on the auspicious occasion of Eid ul-Al’haa. Highlighting that Eid ul-Al’haa was an occasion to strengthen kindness and friendship among all Muslims, President Waheed noted that Hajj encourages the establishment of harmonious familial and brotherly relations among us. The President also sent Eid greetings to the Leaders of Islamic countries and to the Heads of Islamic Organisations. The President has also been receiving greetings from them.

Vice President extends Al’haa Eid greetings

Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has extended greetings to the people of the Maldives, on the auspicious occasion of Eid ul-Al’haa. In his message to the people, the Vice President had said that on this special occasion, we should all give importance to national interest instead of our own personal interests.

Do not oppose the Shariah in the guise of democracy and human rights- Mufti
-All systems other than Islamic Shariah are unjust and false systems

The current Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, the President of the Permanent Committee for Religious Verdicts of Saudi Arabia, and the Head of the Organization of Senior Scholars of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Abdul-azeez bin Abdillah Aal ash-Sheikh has called the Muslims not to oppose the Islamic Shariah in the guise of democracy and human rights. The Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah said on Thursday in the Hajj Sermon at Masjid an-Nimra where around 3 million Muslims are present in Arafah.

President urges all to make Eid an occasion to strengthen kindness and friendship

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has extended greetings to the people of the Maldives, and Leaders of Islamic countries on the auspicious occasion of Eid ul-Al’haa. Highlighting that Eid ul-Al’haa was an occasion to strengthen kindness and friendship among all Muslims, President Waheed noted that Hajj encourages the establishment of harmonious familial and brotherly relations among us. The President also sent Eid greetings to the Leaders of Islamic countries and to the Heads of Islamic Organisations. The President has also been receiving greetings from them.

Majlis also does not have the authority to break the law- Govt

Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that the Peoples’ Majlis despite being a power of the state it does not have the authority to break the law and oppose the constitution. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Abbas said that the Majlis does not have the constitutional power to pass laws contradicting the constitution. He said that the constitution is very clear on giving equal rights to all and it is unacceptable to pass any laws giving leaders of one of the state powers to be exempted from equality and justice.

UN Maldives Draws Attention to Achieving Millennium Development Goals on UN Day
The UN system in the Maldives focused on sustainable development and accelerated efforts to achieve the MDGs in its celebration of the 67th founding anniversary of the United Nations. The theme for the commemoration is “MDG Acceleration and Sustainable Development”. The UN Day 2012 theme in the Maldives is a contribution to the global advocacy to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015.

Greenpeace flagship Rainbow Warrior will visit Laamu Atoll, Maldives on 5th November
The Rainbow Warrior, the newest addition to the Greenpeace fleet, will visit Laamu Atoll in Maldives, on 5th November 2012. The ship is currently engaged in an expedition across the Indian Ocean to listen to communities from the region, with the goal of empowering them to take greater ownership of their ocean resources by creating sustainable fisheries.

Suicide bomber kills 41 in Afghan mosque
At least 41 people were killed at a mosque in northern Afghanistan after Eid Al-Adha prayers on Friday when a militant blew himself up with a powerful bomb strapped into his body, officials said. Dozens more were wounded as the bomb ripped through the crowd of worshippers in Maymana city in Faryab province and there were fears the death toll could rise. There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but suicide bombings are a favorite weapon of Taleban Islamists trying to topple the Western-backed government of President Hamid Karzai. The attacker was wearing a police uniform when he blew himself up at the entrance to the city’s packed Eid Gah mosque, deputy provincial governor Abdul Satar Barez told AFP.

Tougher measures needed to prevent illegals during Haj
The government will be forced to adopt tougher measures to prevent undocumented pilgrims from entering the holy sites, Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal said during a visit to Mina yesterday. The prince said those who transport illegal pilgrims would be brought to justice. He emphasized the role Saudis play in cutting down the number of undocumented pilgrims and those who transport them to the holy sites. “Haj is the biggest Islamic event in the world and we Saudis are honored to host this spiritual event every year. It is our duty to make it successful without exploiting it for material gain,” he said. “When Saudis realize the enormity of their responsibility to the management of Haj, we’ll be able to solve this problem. We must foster a culture of Islamic hospitality,” he said

Three million stand at Arafat in Haj climax
In an atmosphere filled with spirituality and serenity, nearly 3 million pilgrims yesterday performed the most important rite of the Haj as they stood in prayer from dawn to dusk in the plains of Arafat, 15 kilometers east of Makkah. The ritual is commonly called as Wuqoof-e-Arafat. A white sea of faithful surged to Mount Arafat as dawn broke on the second day of the five-day event. Waves of men in seamless white robes and veiled women in long dresses joined voices in a crescendo chanting “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” (Here I am O God, answering your call). Thousands of police were stationed along the routes to Arafat and helicopters hovered overhead. Many faithful carried umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun in temperatures reaching 37 degrees Celsius. Sprinklers intermittently sprayed them with water.

                 24 October 2012 | Wednesday              

Fasting on the Day of 'Arafah
The ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah (the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar) is the Day of 'Arafah. It is the day

When pilgrims stand on the plain of 'Arafah to pray. On this day, Muslims all over the world who do not witness the annual Hajj should spend the day in fasting, in preparation for the three days festivity following 'Eid ul-Adha(the celebration marking the end of the Hajj commemorating the Prophet Ibrahim's willingness of sacrifice).

Haj 2012 begins, pilgrims start moving into Mina

Hundreds of thousands of white-clad believers, in buses, cars and on foot and all of them chanting “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” (“Here I am, O Allah, here I am”), began their trek last night to the nearby tent city of Mina in the first leg of the annual pilgrimage. Nearly 2 million pilgrims have come from abroad for what is described as the largest gathering of Muslims in the world. They will be joined by nearly 1 million from within Saudi Arabia, including a large number of expatriates.

Death Penalty Bill to be open for public Opinion

Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that the death penalty implementation bill drafted by the Attorney General at the request of President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan will be open for public opinion soon on the website of the Attorney General. Abbas said that the bill will be sent to the Peoples’ Majlis with the thoughts of the public regarding the bill. Abbas said that the President Dr. Waheed ordered to draft the bill within 3 weeks time on October 9. He said that this was done after holding discussions with the relevant authorities. He said that all the leaders who participated in these discussions requested the President that a law should be passed to implement the death sentence verdicts issued by the Courts of law. Despite some raising concern over the implementation of the death sentence, Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed said that the Qisas verdicts must be implemented. He said that the ruler does not have the choice to give clemency to murders and change the death sentence.

It’s now time for the private sector of Maldives and China to extend cooperation-VP

Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has said that it is now time for the private sector of the two countries to extend cooperation, in the development of bilateral relations. The Vice President said this meeting the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr Zhao Qizheng yesterday at the President’s Office.

Airport was reclaimed from the Brits after much sacrifice- Umar Zahir

Former Minister Umar Zahir has said that much blood and sweat was shed to reclaim Hulhule’ Airport made of slotted steel sheets from the Brits. He said that he was among the people who participated in the activities to reclaim the airport. Umar Zahir said this at the public rally of the “Reclaim Maldivian Airport back to Maldivians” movement held at Artificial Beach last night. During the gathering, Ibrahim Shafeeg’s book, “Maldivian Airport will be run by Maldivians” was released.

No committee can summon judges- JSC
Judicial Service Commission has stated that that it had sole authority to make judges accountable for their actions, and that there is no law which allowed any committee other than the JSC to hold judges accountable. JSC stated this in response to the decision by the Parliamentary Subcommittee on Government to summon before it the three Majistrates on the bench to hear the criminal case against former President Mohamed Nasheed.

Visiting Chinese leader meets Shahid
Member of the Standing Committee and Chairman of Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Committee of the CPPCC Zhao Qizheng has paid a courtesy call on Speaker Abdulla Shahid, MP, yesterday. At the meeting held at the People’s Majlis Secretariat, the Speaker highlighted on the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and China, noting that the Sino-Maldives diplomatic ties have been a model for fostering mutual respect and friendship between big and small nations. The Speaker expressed his gratitude to the Chinese government for their continuous assistance provided for the development of the Maldives. At the meeting, Zhao Qizheng conveyed his confidence on growth and economic development in the Maldives.

From global to local: Time for collective action

The World Bank’s 10th annual Doing Business report was released this week. Policymakers and business executives around the world are taking advantage of this milestone to celebrate the enormous impact this publication has had on the world. By providing straightforward and reliable information on business regulations, the Doing Business project has contributed to the removal of barriers and restrictions to doing business in countless countries.

Country’s achievements on millennium goals is certainly not without UN support-VP

Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has said that the Maldives could not have achieved any progress on its millennium goals without the support of the UN. The Vice President made this remark while speaking at the official function held this afternoon, to mark this year’s UN Day. At the function held at the UN building, the Vice President reiterated the government’s commitment to achieve the Maldives’ millennium goals within the targeted time period. He especially noted the government’s determination in solving the various social issues faced today; the high youth unemployment rate, drug related problems and gang violence.

Majlis approves 04 senior govt appointments
People’s Majlis has yesterday approved 04 senior government appointments. At yesterday’s Sitting, MPs voted to accept the appointment of Mr. Mohamed Naseer / M. Funfini as the Ambassador of the Maldives to India, with 50 votes in favor, and 2 MPs voting against. 1 MP abstained from the vote.

Maldives accepting requests for management of Vodamulaa island

The Maldives Tourism Development Corporation Plc (MTDC) announced that they are accepting requests from Maldivian and foreign individuals, partnerships, and companies to submit written proposals, under the Request for Proposal (RFP) , for the management and operation of Vodamulaa island in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Vodamulaa is leased by the government of Maldives for the development of 150-room resort.

ADB to Support Myanmar Education Assessment, Reforms
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Australia are providing $570,000 in technical assistance to strengthen planning and reforms in post-primary education in Myanmar, including secondary education, technical and vocational education and training, and higher education, a vital component to ensuring the country is prepared for opportunities created by ongoing democratic and financial reforms.

                 23 October 2012 | Tuesday              

President Waheed says that sustainable development requires a sound energy policy

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that a sound energy policy is necessary for sustainable development. The President made this statement while speaking at the World Energy Forum that began yesterday in Dubai. Speaking at the ceremony, the President said that a development path primarily based on expensive diesel-generated electricity was unsustainable in any country, and that in Maldives today, we have already reached the point where the current expenditure on oil has become an obstacle to economic growth and development.

Auditor General and CSC differ on Finance Act issue

Auditor General and the Civil Service Commission has differed and criticized each other on the issue of Finance Act and Finance regulations. Auditor General and senior officials of the Civil Service Commission strongly censured each other yesterday at the Public Accounts Committee of the Peoples’ Majlis. The meeting with the Auditor General and officials of the Auditor General’s Office and senior officials of the Civil Service Commission was held by the Committee in order to consider concerning issues in the Special Audit Report of the Disaster Management Center.

MIRA’s income increased to 82% in the third quarter

Maldives Inland Revenew Authority MIRA, has said that they have got 2.2 billion Maldivian Rufiya in the third quarter of this month and this is a 81.7% increase compared to the second quarter of the year. According to MIRA, the 2.2 billion rufiyaa was from the months of July, August and September. During the second quarter of the year MIRA got 1.4 billion rufiyaa. From the 2.2 billion rufiyaa , 36.9% was from the Business Profit Tax(BFT) and the second highest amount was from businessmen who paid their GST. GST amount was 24.4%. The third higest amount was paid by the tourism sector. They paid 13.7%.

MDP proposes to hide votees while taking on no confidence vote.

MDP proposes to the majlis to hide votes while taking no confidence votes, except President and Vice President of Majlis. Fisrt this reform was submitted to the majlis by Kudahuvadhoo constituency member Ahmed Amir. But because some of the members and people from his constituency requested to take back the reform he took it back. This time Ibrahim Shifaz from MDP who is Baa rashu constituency member submitted the reform to the majlis . He said he submitted this reform to the General Committee on last Wednesday and his purpose of submitting it was to get more security to the majlis members.

6.5 Million Rufiya Loss to Maldives due to Former President Nasheed;s selfish decision:
Some members who were removed by Nasheed gets half million rufiyaa.

Some of the members who were removed by ex President Mohamed Nasheed have got half million rufiyaa. According to Supreme Court, 8 members who were appointed by former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom were removed by against the law. And now the government have given half million rufiyaa to some members. Supreme court gave its ruling on the members on this year’s March 13th . And the court ordered to give the members compensation including salary and allowances from the day they were removed to the final day of the previous majlis.

Eid prayers to be held in stadium area.

Islamic Ministry has decided to have the Al’ha eid prayers at the stadium area on Friday. According to Permanent Secretary at the Ministry Mohamed Didi, the prayers will be held the way the Fithr eid had been held in the area and the arrangements are underway. He said a meeting was held with members from the concerned institutions. And Minister Sheikh Shaheem took part in the meeting. Didi said members from 20 institutions joined the meeting.

Adaalath reveals three themes for the presidential campaign

Adhaalath Party has revealed three themes for the manifesto of the party for the 2013 Presidential election. Adhaalath Party informed the media of the three themes for their manifesto at yesterday’s press conference held at the head office of the party. The party noted that they are now currently working on their manifesto and it will be completed soon.

Majlis sitting adjourned due to recurrent loss of quorum as Usual
At yesterday’s Sitting, debate continued for its second day on Ahmed Sameer, MP, for Dhidhoo Constituency’s proposal that the Parliament take action against the government following falsified reports of seeking Parliamentary approval for an MRF 300 million loan from Bank of Maldives (BML). The loan is being investigated in Parliament on account of Articles 142 and 143 of the Standing Orders, under Article 99 of the Constitution.

First Lady visits Dubai Autism Center

The Dubai Autism Center (DAC) welcomed the wife of Dr. Mohammed Waheed, President of the Republic of Maldives, the First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain, who expressed her desire to create bilateral relations with the Dubai Autism Center to contribute in improving the services provided to individuals with autism in the Maldives.

Majlis debates declaration calling for investigation into human rights violations during Gayoom’s regime

At yesterday’s Tenth Sitting of the Third Session, a declaration was tabled by Mohamed Rasheed, MP, for South Machangolhi calling for independent investigation into alleged human rights violations during the presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. The Speaker allocated one hour for the debate on the declaration, and ten MP’s spoke at today’s Sitting of the Majlis.

                 22 October 2012 | Monday              

It’s the duty of each Civil Servant to provide responsible Public Service-VP

Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has said that it was the duty of each civil servant to provide responsible public service to the people. The Vice President made this remark while speaking at the Civil Service Innovation Award ceremony held yesterday morning at the Islamic Centre function hall. The Vice President said that a service provider should make it a point to provide pleasant service to the people. And that if this pleasant attitude was not present at all levels of the organization, it could be considered as dishonest service.

Risk of AIDS exposure to the public increased- Dr Jamsheed

Minister of Health Dr Ahmed Jamsheed Mohamed has said that the risk of AIDS exposure to the public has increased with the increase of injecting drug users who may share contaminated needles. The Minister said that a person who has been infected in that manner have been found in the Maldives recently. Speaking to the media, Minister Dr Jamsheed said that there is fear of an AIDS epidemic among such drug users and others because of this. He said that by the grace of Allah, compared to many countries in the region, Maldives has a low prevalence of the disease. He stressed that if the causes for the spread of AIDS is present then the chance of an epidemic is high.

Airport will be reclaimed and 7 Feb 2013 will be a happy day for Maldives- Sheikh Imran

President of the Adhaalath Party, Sheikh Imran Abdullah has said that the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport leased to GMR Infrastructure by the former government will be reclaimed back on 7 February 2013. He said that it will be a day of happiness and freedom for the people of Maldives. Sheikh Imran made this remark speaking at the press conference held by the 13 member steering committee of the government coalition of parties. Sheikh Imran said that the coalition has formed two committees to hold activities to reclaim the airport. He said that the two committees formed are the media and promotion committee and the fund raising committee. He said that the work will be continued by these committees. Adhaalath Party president added that the mass symposium earlier scheduled for November 3 is now postponed to November 9. He said that the symposium was postponed because there is a lot of work and activities scheduled. In yesterday’s meeting of the steering committee, the members urged for the joint cooperation of all relevant parties and the people. They requested for monetary aid and also urged more people to partake in the activities.

President Waheed departs to Dubai

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has yesterday morning departed to Dubai, to attend the World Energy Forum. First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain is accompanying the President during this visit. During his visit, the President will deliver a statement at the World Energy Forum. World Energy Forum is an International Not-for-Profit Membership Organization which promotes cleaner and safer energy and sustainable development worldwide. The Organization was founded in 2008 by Professor Harold Hyun-Suk Oh, who heads the Organization as President and Chairman.

It’s Just Not About 13-A -- Plus, Minus Or None
By N. SathiyaMoorthy
Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s media interview on his wanting the Thirteenth Amendment scrapped may have set the cat among the pigeons on the larger issue of ensuring ethnic peace. It has the potential not only to revive the national discourse on the ‘national problem’ almost from the scratch but also to put off the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) from the Parliament Select Committee (PSC). Gota’s brother, the President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, has been hard-selling the PSC to the TNA for long without much success. Gota’s prescription also goes against the letter and spirit of the LLRC Report, to which the Government has committed itself before the international community. It also comes ahead of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Sri Lanka’s human rights record at the UNHRC, Geneva, where the current exposition could flag renewed concerns.

World pledges more money to protect biodiversity
Efforts to stem the worrying loss of Earth's dwindling natural resources received a boost Saturday when a UN conference in India agreed to double biodiversity aid to poor countries. But in a week that saw 400 plants and animals added to a "Red List" at risk of extinction, some observers said this was not enough to reverse the decline in species and habitats that humans depend on for food, shelter and livelihoods.

Indian farmers cotton on to sustainable farming
Maldives Pushes Revamping of the Smooth Transition Process for LDC Graduation. Maldives has called for the revamping of the Smooth Transition Process for the graduation of countries from Least Developed Country status while drawing attention to the vulnerabilities of island nations. Speaking in the Second Committee of the General Assembly of the United Nations yesterday, Ambassador Ahmed Sareer stated that though “Maldives had success in pioneering new measures to mitigate the effects of graduation ... the question of whether those efforts were enough has not been answered in the positive.”

                 21 October 2012 | Sunday              

JP Leader Qasim Ibrahim returns to Male’

Leader of Jumhooree party Qasim Ibrahim has returned to Male’ after concluding his non official visit to Europe. Senior officials from Jumhooree party, members from the party and some parliament members and well wishers welcomed him on his arrival. Some of the officials who were at the airport to welcome Qasim said, they were there to welcome Qasim because some media had revealed information some serious issues regarding his health. Others said they were there because he is the presidential candidate from the party.

Will not let opposition to get victory on no motion against President – Thasmeen

Leader of DRP Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said they will try their utmost best in not getting victory to MDP on the submission of no confidence motion against President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik. Thasmeen said Dr.Waheed and Home Minister Dr.Ahmed Jameel Mohamed are two members from the ruling coalition government. And in this case DRP will support the two members and will not cooperate with MDP. Thasmeen said, MDP is jealous of the government because of the government’s achievements and progress in handling issues. Also he said, the main aim of MDP is to waste time of the majlis.Leader of Jumhooree party, Qasim Ibrahim too has told that MDP will not get victory on the no confidence motion against Waheed. Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza told Raajenews that MDP can gain victory over no confidence vote against Waheed by bringing members from the ‘moon’.