AGP Executive Report

Governance Debate: Former President Abdulla Yameen says the Maldives is not ready to switch to a parliamentary system, calling the legislature a “sale house” and arguing instead for targeted constitutional reforms, including ending long-term police custody without charge. Parliamentary Oversight: North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) grilled Home Minister Ali Ihusan over alleged neglect at the K. Himmafushi drug treatment and rehabilitation center, raising concerns on cleanliness, food, staff training, human-rights compliance, and treatment quality. Public Safety: MNDF says there is still no sign of three missing men after the “Friend 4” supply vessel sank in the Huvadhoo Sea; searches have covered thousands of square nautical miles using air, sea, and UAV support. Economy & Policy: Maldives Monetary Authority tightened liquidity controls to curb excess Rufiyaa, raising minimum reserves and expanding open market operations, while linking the surplus to earlier monetary financing. Tourism Growth: Cruise arrivals nearly doubled this year, reaching 15,577 passengers so far, up about 87% year-on-year, even as overall arrivals show only a modest change. Party Politics: Local Government Authority CEO Mohamed Nimal announced he will contest for PNC vice-president ahead of the September congress.

Monetary Policy Tightening: The Maldives Monetary Authority has approved fresh steps to curb excess Rufiyaa liquidity, raising banks’ minimum reserves from 10.5% to 11.0% from September and expanding open market operations to absorb more money. Constitution Debate: Former Supreme Court justice Mahaz Ali Zahir says the country lacks a strong culture of upholding the rule of law, while former VP Faisal Naseem argues constitutional amendments are needed for economic self-sufficiency and stronger checks between state powers. Human Trafficking Response: The government is studying options for a permanent victim protection and support facility in Malé, moving beyond temporary arrangements and bundling medical, counseling, legal help and secure accommodation. Tourism Update: Cruise tourism is surging, with cruise passenger arrivals nearly doubling to 15,577 so far this year—up about 87%—even as total arrivals show only a slight dip. Political Watch: PNC Local Government Authority CEO Mohamed Nimal says he will contest for the party’s vice-president post ahead of the September congress. Housing & Land Rules: Regulations were amended to allow land allocation for non-residential purposes to companies where the government holds a majority stake.

Currency & Monetary Policy: Former president Abdulla Yameen warned the Maldivian rufiyaa has lost so much value that people no longer want to save in it, while the Maldives Monetary Authority moved to tighten its monetary policy by reducing excess liquidity. Party Politics: Local Government Authority CEO Mohamed Nimal announced he will contest for the PNC vice-presidency ahead of the September congress, aiming to support President Muizzu’s 2028 election bid. Housing & Land Rules: Updated regulations now allow companies with government majority stakes to be allocated land for non-residential purposes, with pricing set by a land valuation committee. Tourism & Events: Maldives Food & Hospitality Asia (FHAM) 2026 is set for Sept 7–9, and the Living Expo’s 14th edition opened in Hulhumalé, spotlighting housing, interiors, and finance. Environment & Youth Activism: Young activists in Addu and Malé protested land reclamation harming mangrove wetlands and pushed back on slow protection measures, while a social media push helped drive parrotfish protections. Hospitality Appointments: Taj Coral Reef promoted Ahmed Shujau to Director of Food & Beverage, as resorts continue rolling out new experiences and upgrades.

Monetary Tightening: The Maldives Monetary Authority approved higher bank reserve requirements and expanded open market operations to drain surplus rufiyaa liquidity, with MRR set to rise from 10.5% to 11.0% from September and a path to 13% by Dec 2027. PNC Leadership Move: Local Government Authority CEO Mohamed Nimal says he will contest for the PNC vice-presidency ahead of the party congress in September, aiming to back President Muizzu’s 2028 election bid. Land Rules Shift: Infrastructure Ministry amendments now allow councils to allocate land to companies where the government holds a majority stake for non-residential purposes, with a six-month window to complete land registration. Opposition Protest Plans: MDP has announced an Aug 13 protest in Malé targeting rising living costs and prices, accusing the government of weakening democratic principles and failing to act. Governance & Oversight: President Muizzu met heads of Supreme Audit Institutions, stressing accountability, transparency, and pushing the Maldives 2.0 plan to digitalize public services within two years. Customs Crackdown: Customs says it caught a foreigner smuggling cocaine into the Maldives inside his body, with police custody following a controlled delivery operation. Tourism Partnerships: Visit Maldives Corporation signed Maldivian and Ana Salon as official partners for the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean 2026. Agriculture Innovation: A new palm pest biological control rearing center in Hanimaadhoo was inaugurated, aiming to produce up to 100,000 beneficial parasitoids daily.

Political Accountability & Governance: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu told Supreme Audit Institutions leaders that every dollar from citizens and development partners must be used for its intended purpose, linking integrity, transparency and digital transformation to stronger institutions and public trust. Parliament & Appointments: Parliament unanimously approved Thoriq Ibrahim as Maldives’ permanent representative to IRENA. Opposition Pressure on Cost of Living: MDP announced a protest on August 13 over rising prices and living costs, accusing the government of weakening democratic principles and failing to act. Ruling Party Counter-Narrative: PNC deputy leader Ibrahim Shujau claimed President Muizzu ran the state during the PPM era, while also attacking former President Yameen and the MDP. Law & Order: NIC warned against social media rumors undermining enforcement agencies, urging complaints through proper channels. Public Services & Housing: Work began on 50 housing units in Ukulhas, with completion targeted in about two years. Security Case: Customs and police reported a foreigner caught smuggling cocaine inside his body at Velana International Airport. International Links: Maldives’ tobacco duty cut sparked expert debate on balancing taxation with enforcement; Maldives also continues regional cooperation on environment and climate change.

Parliament & Opposition: PNC Speaker Abdul Raheem hit back at former President Yameen, saying courts are not influenced and urging youth to study past failures. Cost of Living Protest: MDP says it will hold a protest on Aug 13 over rising prices and worsening living conditions, with a 8:30pm start near the Social Centre on Majeedhee Magu. Governance & Integrity: President Muizzu told SIDS audit chiefs and international delegates that every citizen and partner dollar must be used for its intended purpose, linking accountability and transparency to stronger institutions; Public Oversight: NIC warned against social-media rumors that undermine law enforcement, urging complaints to the commission instead. Appointments & Diplomacy: Parliament unanimously backed Thoriq Ibrahim for appointment as Maldives’ permanent representative to IRENA. State Sector & Jobs: Employment Tribunal rejected former MIFCO CEO Vitaliy Lyubimov’s compensation claim over his dismissal. Housing Delivery: Work began on 50 housing units in Ukulhas, with completion targeted in 600 days. Security & Enforcement: Customs and police seized MVR 2.9m worth of drugs in a body-smuggling case at VIA.

SOE Right-Sizing Clash: Former Dhaandhoo MP Yaugoob Abdulla alleges dismissals at state firms are being driven by PNC steering committees on islands, not company performance reviews, and says political appointees are still protected. Parliament & Appointments: Parliament unanimously backed Thoriq Ibrahim for appointment as Maldives’ permanent representative to IRENA, after President Muizzu’s nomination. Money Must Deliver: President Muizzu told SIDS audit and INTOSAI summit sessions that every citizen and partner dollar must be used for its intended purpose, linking accountability to national progress. PNC vs MDP on Power & Decentralisation: Mohamed Nasheed says PNC MPs regret surrendering powers to the President and warns PNC councilors may face the same issue under proposed Decentralization Act amendments. Cost-of-Living Politics: Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed released a video response to MDP’s planned price protest, arguing the downturn was caused by the previous administration’s “printing money” without dollar reserves. Health & Regulation: MFDA says unauthorized supplements remain available in shops and on social media despite required registration, urging consumers to check warning labels. Parliament Summons Insurance: MPs summoned Allied Insurance after complaints that coverage for treatment in Maldives and abroad is inadequate. Marine Science Push: Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam opened MMRI’s 6th Marine Science Symposium, stressing research-led protection of the Maldives’ marine biodiversity. Connectivity & Trade: Maldives is negotiating two more air service agreements, while India-Maldives trade hit USD 771.76m in 2025–26 and the Favara-UPI corridor supports real-time cross-border payments.

MDP vs Government on Cost of Living: Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed hit back at the opposition’s planned Aug 12 protest over rising prices, saying the downturn is tied to the previous administration’s “printing money” without dollar reserves and warning MDP leaders are undermining confidence in local businesses. Parliament Oversight: MPs summoned Allied Insurance after complaints that MPs struggle to get adequate treatment in Maldives and abroad, with the committee pointing to the annual contract selection process. Sovereignty & Residency: An MDP-backed resolution seeks to halt the “Maldives Pearl Residence” program, alleging it grants permanent residency to foreigners without proper parliamentary legislation and calls for related agreements to be tabled. Tourism & Aviation: Velana International Airport and the Maamahi Executive Lounge were nominated for World Travel Awards in Indian Ocean categories. Marine Policy: Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam opened the 6th Marine Science Symposium, stressing research-led protection of Maldives’ marine biodiversity. Food Security: Maldives launched an agroforestry initiative across 10 islands, distributing 400,000 saplings to boost resilience and reduce import dependence. Connectivity: Maldives is negotiating two more air service agreements to expand routes and new tourist markets.

Maldives–India Ties: Bilateral trade between the Maldives and India rose 13.54% to USD 771.76m in India’s 2025–26 year, with cooperation spanning investment, tourism, healthcare, and digital payments. Parliament & Religion: Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed told MPs it’s “normal” for the hajj queue to grow longer, citing faith growth and improved planning. Customs & Public Order: Maldives Customs urged people to stop social-media harassment that questions its legal duties, stressing inspections are done under the Customs Act. Cost of Living Politics: MDP announced a Malé protest on Aug 12 over rising prices; Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed hit back, blaming global conflicts for commodity costs. Right-Sizing & Accountability: Parliament backed ACC and Police to investigate illegal Fenaka promotions; MTCC was fined MVR 30,000 for late audited financials. Tourism & Connectivity: Maldives is negotiating two more air service agreements to open new tourist routes; arrivals keep recovering, with resorts hosting about 73% of visitors so far this year. Food Security: Government launched agroforestry on 10 islands, distributing 400,000 saplings to boost resilience.

Opposition vs Government: Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed hit back at the MDP’s planned Aug 12 protest over rising living costs, saying the opposition keeps using the same dates and downplaying the role of global conflicts in commodity prices. Cost of Living Protest: MDP Chair Mohamed Nasheed announced “Dhathivejje” in Malé on Aug 12, listing baby formula, basmati rice, coffee powder, cooking oil and milk among items whose prices have surged. Parliament & Accountability: Parliament approved a motion directing the ACC and Police to investigate illegal promotions at Fenaka Corporation in 2022–2023, based on the Auditor General’s special audit, and ordered right-sizing and tighter recruitment rules. Employment Tribunal Leadership: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu appointed Ahmed Mamdhooh as Vice President of the Employment Tribunal, following his oath at the President’s Office. Public Finance Compliance: MTCC was fined MVR 30,000 by the CMDA for late submission of audited financial statements. Tourism Snapshot: Maldives arrivals are recovering after Middle East-linked disruptions, with 1.2 million tourists so far this year and resorts hosting about 73% of visitors. Food Security Push: Maldives launched an agroforestry initiative across 10 islands, distributing 400,000 saplings to boost local food production and climate resilience. Business & Regulation: Maldives Transport and Contracting Company’s disclosure delays drew penalties, while MTDC denied claims it is selling a head lease at an undervalued price.

MDP Protest: The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) says it will hold a Malé rally, “Dhathivejje,” on August 12 at 4:30pm outside the Social Center, targeting soaring prices of essentials like baby formula, basmati rice, coffee powder, cooking oil and milk, and blaming dollar shortages and inflation for household strain. State Oversight on Fenaka: Parliament has ordered the ACC and Police to investigate illegal promotions at Fenaka Corporation in 2022–2023 after an Auditor General audit, while Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib told MPs stalled Fenaka utility projects were caused by “mess” left by the Solih administration and Fenaka’s inability to deliver contracts. Business Crackdown: The Ministry of Economic Affairs has shut 107 foreign-run businesses operating illegally, after inspections linked to 447 complaints. Forensics Upgrade: Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has been allocated land in Hulhumalé to set up a forensic medical unit for postmortem services. Appointments: President Muizzu appointed Fathimath Dhiyana Saeed as ambassador to Belgium and the EU, and Ahmed Mamdhooh as Vice President of the Employment Tribunal; Mamdhooh replaces a previous vacancy. Party Politics: MDP also approved holding its congress on September 19, and Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam is reported to be contesting for PNC vice presidency ahead of the party congress.

PNC Leadership Race: Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam says he will contest for the ruling PNC vice presidency ahead of the party congress on September 19, joining a field that includes Asma Rasheed, Mundhu (Mohamed Hussain Shareef), Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, Youth Minister Abdulla Rafiu, Baarah MP Ibrahim Shujau and Nilandhoo MP Fathimath Saudha. MDP Congress Date: The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party has approved holding its congress on September 19, with preparations expected to shape its next presidential election direction. Monetary & Economic Debate: Former President Abdulla Yameen accused President Muizzu of continuing Solih’s “irresponsible legacy,” warning that liquidity policies could push the US dollar rate sharply higher. Port & Maritime Oversight: MACL has introduced mandatory vessel registration for access to Velana Airport’s jetty and lagoon via a new “Harbour Portal,” while separate reports say 17 empty containers fell overboard from an MSS vessel near Colombo due to rough seas. Digital Payments: Maldives’ Favara-UPI corridor is now operational, enabling instant cross-border transfers from Maldives bank apps to UPI-enabled accounts in India. Public Health: HPA issued an advisory for returning Umrah pilgrims, urging medical attention for respiratory symptoms within 14 days and cautioning against self-medicating with antibiotics. Disability Awards: Applications are open for the Riveli Awards 2026, a government initiative under the “Caring Society” policy to recognize disability inclusion efforts. Logistics Milestone: VIA recorded its highest-ever monthly sea-to-air transshipment cargo volume, handling 621 tonnes in a month and over 2,000 tonnes total transshipment.

Public Health: The Maldives Health Protection Agency (HPA) issued an advisory for people returning from Umrah, warning of a rise in flu and viral illnesses during peak return periods and urging anyone with cough, shortness of breath or chest pain within 14 days to seek care and avoid self-starting antibiotics. Digital Economy: The Maldives Monetary Authority says the Favara-UPI cross-border payment corridor is now live, enabling instant person-to-person transfers from Maldivian banks to India via UPI in seconds. Trade & Diplomacy: The Maldives–Türkiye Preferential Trade Agreement has entered into force, with preferential tariff concessions across 75 tariff lines to boost fisheries exports and expand access to Turkish goods. Politics: Former President Mohamed Nasheed backed the government’s residency-by-investment program, while the MDP continues to push for it to be halted through a parliamentary resolution. Party Politics: Six senior figures have filed nominations for the PNC deputy vice-president post ahead of the September congress. Transport & Regulation: MACL introduced mandatory Harbour Portal registration for vessels using the Velana Airport jetty/lagoon area, with permission required after a one-month onboarding period. Agriculture: Monsoon rains caused major crop damage in Kandoodhoo, with MPs calling for assistance and prevention measures. Sports: SAFF Championship 2026 draw sets India, Maldives and Pakistan in Group B, with Nepal’s participation dependent on FIFA lifting its suspension.

Residency-by-investment row: Former President Mohamed Nasheed backed the government’s residency program, calling it a new tourism-style business that could bring economic gains, even as the MDP pushes a parliamentary move to halt it over sovereignty concerns. PNC leadership contest: Six senior figures have filed to run for the ruling PNC’s deputy posts, with Maafannu Central MP Asma Rasheed and her son, government spokesperson Mundhu, among the candidates. Airport safety and control: MACL has started mandatory vessel registration for anyone using Velana Airport’s jetty/lagoon area via a new “Harbour Portal,” with a one-month onboarding period. Digital finance milestone: Favara has been integrated with India’s UPI, enabling real-time person-to-person transfers from Maldives banks to UPI-enabled accounts in India. Trade ties with Türkiye: The Maldives–Türkiye Preferential Trade Agreement has entered into force, granting tariff concessions across 75 lines, with a focus on boosting Maldivian fisheries exports. Monsoon impact: Heavy rains have caused major crop damage in Kandoodhoo, with local officials saying assessments are underway and farmers need support. Maritime incident: Search continues for two missing people after a landing craft sank near Gaafaru, amid adverse weather warnings. SAFF football draw: India, Pakistan and Maldives are set for SAFF Championship 2026 Group B, while Nepal’s participation depends on FIFA lifting its suspension by September deadlines.

Parliament Showdown: The MDP has filed a no-confidence motion against Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, accusing him of constitutional violations, mishandling the USD crunch, and failing to properly account for state spending amid port bottlenecks and rising inflation. Digital Government: President Muizzu says work has started on a Smart ID Card, aimed to roll out within 18 months and link identification with access to financial and other services under a broader “digital Maldives” push. Cross-Border Payments: Maldives’ Favara instant payment system has been integrated with India’s UPI, enabling real-time person-to-person transfers from Malé via Bank of Maldives and Maldives Islamic Bank, with expansion expected beyond remittances. Trade Boost with Türkiye: The Maldives–Türkiye Preferential Trade Agreement has entered into force, granting tariff concessions across 75 lines to expand market access, especially for Maldivian fisheries. Sovereignty Focus: President Muizzu reiterates plans to recover lost maritime territory through international legal channels, including a specialized commission to review how the previous administration handled ITLOS steps. Banking Leadership: Bank of Maldives CEO Mohamed Shareef appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association, the first Maldivian to lead the body. Sports Administration: Kazi Salahuddin re-elected SAFF president unopposed for a fifth term as the SAFF Championship draw is set for today in Bhutan.

Maritime Sovereignty: President Dr. Muizzu says Maldives will pursue recovery of lost maritime territory in the southern waters through international legal channels, including a new commission to review how the previous administration handled the ITLOS case. Digital Economy: The Maldives Monetary Authority has gone live with the Favara–UPI cross-border payment corridor, enabling real-time person-to-person transfers from Maldives to India via Bank of Maldives and Maldives Islamic Bank, with funds sent in MVR and credited in INR. Banking Leadership: Bank of Maldives CEO Mohamed Shareef has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association, becoming the first Maldivian to lead the regional body. Trade & Agriculture: APEDA facilitated the first air shipment of Karnataka’s Neelam and Totapuri mangoes to the Maldives, opening new late-season export opportunities for farmers and women-led exporters. Weather & Transport: Aviation expert Mohamed Firaq urges authorities to better weather-proof VIA’s terminal drop-off area after heavy rain caused delays and passenger frustration. Public Safety: MNDF Coast Guard continues searching for two missing people after a landing craft sank near Gaafaru, with eight survivors already transported to the island.