President warns all guilty of embezzlement will be arrested

President Mohamed Nasheed has warned that all those who had misappropriated or embezzled state funds and resources will be arrested and brought to justice. The President gave the warning while speaking at a general assembly of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) held on Friday night.

Speaking at the meeting the President said the people wants a just government free of corruption and that this was exactly the thinking of MDP as such all those who had embezzled state funds and resources would be arrested and brought to justice.

“There is no room for any doubt; by the will of Almighty, we will establish democratic good governance, we will find out those who had misappropriated people’s money, the country’s money and the country’s rich resources and we will give them their due punishment” he said. He went on to say “I would like say this very clearly, that in the near future, we will have to arrest some people, for a short time or short period”.

Referring to party members, the President said this should not be matter that should raise their spirits and joy but should be a matter we should be expressing sadness.

“We are very said, but I will have to arrest these people, it’s very sad and this not funny but I will do this “President said. He said it was going to be a difficult decision and that he would do it for the country’s future.

“I will do it, I will arrest them, it is going to be one of the saddest things that I would ever do, it is going to be a difficult thing to do but when the time comes I will do it” he said.

Calling on party members to remain calm, he reminded them that the country was not his own and that those who had betrayed the country would be punished.

The President also said that he was fully aware of how things happen in this country. He said he is fully conversant with the constitution, each and every island, the reefs and the lagoons, the government and the powers of the government and even how to use them. He said, God willing, he would bring the perpetrators to justice, in a fair and just manner without any spirit of revenge.

He said the biggest responsibility of the Auditor General to audit how the state funds and resources were used; to determine whether any funds or resources were embezzled and to prevent such embezzlements. He also said all of the 26 reports published by the Auditor General have been sent to Maldives Police Services for action.

The President further said the objective in seeking out those who had embezzled state funds and resources was to prevent the present government and its officials resorting to such action. He said unless these people are brought to justice, his government would not be safe.

The President also said his government cannot be toppled and that even though his party did not win parliamentary seats in the recent elections, his party, MDP, was still the biggest and most influential political movement in the country.

Leading Disorientation Grazes Irresponsible Leadership

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) in disarray with the government, the president of the commission has said that he do not believe a leadership responsible if it over powers president appointed leaders. He said it is not in the best interest of responsibility to bring a header to a leader.

Speaking at Dharubaaruge conference room Fansavees, the president of the Civil Service Commission Dr. Latheef said, the government order to Atolls not to delegate jobs to responsible heads, they are assigned by the CSC they must continue their duty and called the heads that it is an onus for them to be responsible in their jobs which is not given to a person but a job to a CSC post.

Dr. Latheef’s comments came hours after three provincial state ministers apparently alleged the Civil Service Commission (CSC) of failing to implement government policy, and lodged a case against commission members with allegations against the independent commission, saying they are reluctance to cooperate with the government, at the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

The three state ministers are Farooq Mohamed Hassan, Mohamed Naeem and Ahmed Mujuthaba they accused the CSC with incorrect citation of the constitution for the commission's interest, working against the elected government and undermining the presidential authorities.

ACC Reports North East Male’ Area Being Used Irregularly

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has ordered the North Eastern reclaimed area of Male’ given to Majeedhiyyaa School for its Diamond Jubilee Carnival to be cleared and use the area that would benefit the government. It said the area under the Male’ Municipality, had been used with irregularity as the area being leased to earn money after the time period given to build a carnival in the picturesque public area.

The ACC says the lucrative plot of land in the most dashing area of Male’ was being used to lease with stalls without proper management. It said the area can be used for more beneficial purposes and renting the stalls from there in a proper management will benefit and earn more revenue to the government.

Some of the stalls in the area were failed to pay the rent with repeated reminders and some areas given to hold live shows were also remain unpaid for longer than expected periods that the ACC says is a concern. Some of the cases were already sent to the Attorney General to issue Court orders to clear the irregularly administered stalls and areas.

The ACC says the whole area must be cleared with prior notice to leasing parties and called the government to come up with a better plan to rent and earn revenue as the piece of land become lucrative.

Opposition now sympathetic - Mausoom

Opposition politicians are now sympathetic to government actions following the ruling party’s defeat in the recent parliamentary elections held on 9 May, Secretary General of Dhivehi Rayithunge Party (DRP) Abdulla Mausoom has said.

General of the main opposition party said after the crushing defeat of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in the recent parliamentary elections President Nasheed was making mistake after mistake and that government actions have even aroused sympathy from opposition politicians.

“After the defeat at the elections , the government actions aroused sympathy from opposition politicians, President Nasheed is making mistake after mistake, for example, after the elections, Civil Service Commission has turned bad, he has formed a Presidential Committee to challenge independent institutions” Mausoom said.

He further said after the elections, President Nasheed is afraid of the DRP PA coalition and that DRP PA’s coalition’s success was a success of all Maldivian people. He also said DRP would work according to the pulse of the people and the country in the best interests of the country and the people.

DRP to propose Shahid as Majlis Speaker, Nazim as Deputy Speaker

The Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) has decided to propose the name of the party’s council member Abdulla Shahid as the Speaker for the People’s Majlis. The country’s biggest opposition party will also propose the name of People’s Alliance’s Vice President Ahmed Nazim for the post of the Deputy Speaker. The People’s Majlis is to convene for its first sitting on 28th of this month.

The DRP made the decision at the first meeting of their parliamentary group held last Wednesday. The spokesperson for the party, Mohamed Saleem, said that the names were endorsed unanimously by the party‘s parliamentary group and that Nazim’s name was proposed as the Deputy Speaker because the PA had formed a coalition with the DRP during the parliamentary elections held on 9 May. He further said that the party’s Deputy Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali had been endorsed unanimously as the DRP’s parliamentary group leader at the meeting.

Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom had also taken part in the DRP’s first parliamentary group meeting.

The DRP/PA coalition had won 35 seats during the parliamentary elections, with DRP taking 28 seats and PA securing seven.

ACC orders MTDC to cancel Ulhigamu resort bid

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has ordered the Maldives Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) to cancel its bid to purchase Rf50 million worth of construction materials for the Ulhigamu resort being developed by the corporation. The ACC cited irregularities with the bid and failure to comply with government bidding procedures as the reason for the cancellation.

According to the statement issued by the ACC last Thursday, the invitation for bids for the project had not been submitted to the Tender Evaluation Board. Although it was indicated that the bid invitations had been sent under MTCC’s “Procurement and Policies Direct Invitation”, the statement said that there were no documents from the company’s directors’ board that indicated that the bid had been made under ‘extenuating circumstances”.

The Anti-Corruption Committee also noted that while the bid had been submitted in violation of government procedures, it also violated the MTDC’s own Procurement and Contracting Policy and Procurement Manual.

All contracts worth more than Rf1.5 million (US$117,000) are required to be screened by the Finance Ministry’s Tender Evaluation Board.

Police has no business interfering – Resort Staff

Police has no business interfering in the peaceful demonstrations going on at Dhonveli Resort (Chaya Island), Ibrahim Moosa, a Maldivian employed at the resort has said.

Moosa Ibrahim providing information to Miadhu Daily said the objective of the peaceful demonstrations is to protect the rights of the employees working on the resort and that almost 75 percent of the employees are taking part in the demonstrations.

“Police has no business interfering in the demonstrations, we have not caused any unrest, we have not entered guest area, we have not caused damage to property, and even before any unrest occurred police has involved themselves and met several workers separately; it is not their business to obtain written statements from workers agreeing to report back to work; management is very clear, they have said despite demonstrations there will be no change and that even the government cannot do anything” Ibrahim said.

Demonstrators have said that the demonstrations will continue till the management submits a written statement agreeing to honor their demands. The demands that the management submits a written statement expressing that they will full comply and respect the Maldives Employment Act; acknowledge that current HR Manager is guilty of racial discrimination; and a promise to wipe out the ongoing practice of racial discrimination.

Ibrahim informed that demonstrations are being participated by Maldivians, Indians and Bangladeshi workers at the resort. He said while the resort employs over 300 staff only 56 are Maldivians. He emphasized that all employees with the exception of Sri Lankans are being treated poorly in direct violation of the provisions of Employment Act.

He also said some of the foreign workers taking part in the demonstrations have been informed to return to work or else they will be fired.

Maldives Police Services reports that officers were dispatched to investigate claims that some of the demonstrators were intimidating and pressuring workers not to report to work. Police Services further confirmed police presence on the island.

Disapprove Thimarafushi Constituency Vote Rigging Inadequate-EC Lawyer

High Court last Thursday heard the Thimarafushi constituency vote rigging during parliamentary election but the layer at the court who represented Elections Commission said the enough evidence was not submitted to disapprove the accuracy of the vote. The hearing Thursday, a report submitted by the Human Rights Commission (HRCM), accused elections official at the ballot station of pressing voters to vote for a certain candidate and the situation in the island had been a nightmare that voting in the island was far from being free and fair. Most of the witnesses at the court were representatives from the Divehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) with which Ghassan was nominated. Some witnesses were Dhives Daily (DRP News paper) reporters. The Human Rights Commission report has said the officials at the voting station has conducted series of irregularities against law and those witness against the ballot said during the day of voting voters were intimidated and has influenced the vote. However, Elections Commission Lawyer said although the witness against the ballot it did not find enough evidence to void the vote and disapprove its accuracy.

House belonging to Qassan’s witness destroyed in fire

The house of the witness, who gave evidence to support former President’s son Qassan Maumoon in High Court yesterday, has been destroyed in a fire that broke out 2130 hours last night. Qassan’s witness, Usha Rasheed lives in a house called Ummeedh in Thimarafushi along with her husband. Maldives Police have said that there were casualties and that fire was extinguished quickly by police officers with the help of the islanders. Even though it is not determined whether the fire broke out due to a deliberate act aimed at destroying the house or accidental caused by electrical shortage, Qassan’s campaign office have claimed that the house was deliberately torched and that it was well planned. In a statement issued early this morning Qassan’s campaign office condemned the act in strong words and revealed that prior to incident Usha Rasheed , Qassan’s witness, received telephone warnings and threats. The statement further called on to bring an immediate end to all such acts. “We are monitoring the condition of the people who suffered ,we have reported the matter to the police and asked them to a make special effort in protecting the safety of the other 6 witnesses who gave evidence in court today as well as for the safety of all people of the Thimarafushi” the statement read. The statement also called on Police to apprehend the people responsible for the act and to bring them to justice. Qassan Maumoon, submitted witness statements to High Court yesterday to support his claim that the vote in the recent parliamentary elections had been rigged against him. Qassan , DRP candidate who contested the Thimarafushi constituency filed his case in court last week, appealing for the annulment of the elections result for Thaa atoll Thimarafushi constituency and take a fresh vote. Last week, Elections Commission announced the final results of all constituencies except Thimarafushi after a High Court ruling ordered the commission to postpone announcing the constituency’s results pending conclusion of the case. Election Commission member Fuad Thoufeeq has said he believed the problems reported in the constituency would not any impact on the overall result; he confirmed 115 missing ballot papers from the ballot box were blank.

Rf. 12 m to be issued in soft loans to develop agriculture - Minister

Over Rf.12 million are to be issued as soft loans to develop agriculture, fisheries minister Dr. Ibrahim Didi has revealed.

Speaking at a press conference held at press room Fansavees/ Dharubaaruge on Thursday, fisheries minister Didi said the under the government’s project to provide financial assistance to farmers some Rf. 12,125,000 are to be given in soft loans. He revealed that the maximum amount an individual farmer may receive as loan would be Rf.50, 000 and registered Corporative Societies are entitled to a maximum loan amount of Rf.500, 000.

Those who have taken islands from the government on long term lease for purposes of agricultural development may receive a maximum loan of Rf.300, 000 and community based organizations would be entitled to a maximum of loan of Rf.100,000.

Fisheries minister further said over Rf. 1,330,000 are to be issued in soft loans fro development of hydroponic agriculture. Under this project, farmers may receive a maximum loan of Rf.100, 000 and a minimum of Rf.15, 000.

Minister Didi said application for loans would be accepted from Sunday onwards for a period of three months.

One of six alleged drug-lords arrested one month before elections

One of the six major drug dealers operating in the country, who were mentioned by President Mohamed Nasheed during a speech earlier this month, had in fact been arrested one month before the parliamentary elections took place, the Maldives Police Service has said.

A Police Media Official said on Tuesday that Hussain Mohamed Manik, of H. Rehi, was one among the drug dealers mentioned by President Nasheed and he had been arrested on 9 April. Following the arrest, Police issued a statement which said that Hussain’s arrest was a really big step forward in their war against drug trafficking. They had released details, including a picture, on 16 April.

President Nasheed had made the controversial speech about knowing the identities of the six major drug dealers operating in the country in Gaafu Alifu atoll Dhevvadhoo during the election campaigns. Speaking to the residents of the island, President Nasheed said that if the identities were revealed and the drug-lords arrested he would be criticized as having arrested people who did not support the Government.

A statement issued by the Police on Tuesday said that Hussain Mohamed Manik had been arrested with ample evidence to back the case against him and that the investigation was still ongoing. A Police Media Official said that the statement had been issued by the Police in order to clear up the misconception among the public that they were not doing anything to arrest the drug dealers in the country despite knowing their identities.

According to the press release issued by the Police on 16 April, Hussain Mohamed Manik was one of the two people who were arrested in connection to the case where an elderly couple had been duped into smuggling more than 1kg of drugs hidden inside some kitchen utensils in their baggage. The press release had further called Hussain Mohamed Manik a ‘high profile person’ in the drug trade.

The statement issued by the Police on Tuesday assured the public that they were working non-stop to gather evidence and intelligence against the major drug dealers in the country and to arrest them and bring them to justice.

Man arrested for sexually molesting nine-year-old

A man in Gaafu Alifu atoll Villingilli has been arrested on charges of sexually molesting a nine-year-old girl.

A Police official said on Wednesday that the young man who was arrested in connection to the case was a person who frequently visited the girl’s house. According to reporter, the man that had been arrested by the Police in connection to the case is Abdulla Areef, 24, of Farimaa.

The Police official further said that the man had committed the act when the little girl had gone into the open-air toilet in her house last Sunday night. A man who lives in the two storey building adjacent to the toilet had spied the man molesting the child and reported it to the Police, the official said.

The official said that the extent of the injuries to the girl would be known after the doctor’s report was finished and that they were still investigating the case.

Police Hunting for President Tipped 6 Drug Lords

Government in its commitment to eradicate illegal drug trafficking is now hot on the trail of the 6 drug lords, the press secretary of the president’s office Mohamed Zuhair said is hopeful Maldives Police will uproot the lords. He said president’s office has now the information of the operation to bring these criminals to justice.

During the campaign for the parliament last month, President Mohamed Nasheed in a speech indicated that he has information of some six drug lords that if they are brought heal it would be easy to eradicate the illegal abuse and trafficking the illicit activities. He said he could not arrest them then as it was in the time of election that critics and others may consider the move as political.

Zuhair said that president made his remarks because president was informed by the police of the people whose arrest would stop the illegal trade. He said the information also highlighted a large network had been running the illicit business and police will continue to locate the foundations of the indicated drug lords.

Despite Zuhair’s briefing Police declined to comment and Zuhair said the ongoing investigation to find these people, he is not able to give any further detail.

Maldivian boy screened for swine flue tested negative

A 10 year old Maldivian boy arriving from India yesterday afternoon via Indian Airlines was screened for swine flue after the boy showed flue like symptoms. However the test results turned negative.

The investigations were carried out at Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and until the results was received the boy was kept under the care of Port Health Authority at Male’ International Airport.

Early this month a 22 year old British woman was also screened for swine flue, after she showed flue like symptoms and she was transferred to quarantine center in Funadhoo Island, she was later tested negative.

In order to prevent an out break of swine flue in Maldives, passengers arriving Maldives though sea ports and airports are being screened for swine flue (A H1N1 virus). In this regard, over 33,000 passengers have been screened, including some 3000 passengers coming from affected countries. So far no one has been tested positive.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) latest statistics swine flue has been detected in 39 countries. A total of 8480 people affected with 72 fatalities.

The WHO has reported that the virus has been detected in Asian countries like Hong Kong, Korea and Thailand. Indian health authorities on Saturday confirmed that a passenger who had arrived in Hyderabad from New York, America, has tested positive for the Swine Flu virus, Influenza A H1N1.

Health ministry has called on the travelling public to exercise caution when travelling abroad. Symptoms of the disease include watery nose, coughing, fever, sneezing and shortness of breath.

Missing ballot papers are blank ones – EC

The 115 ballot papers missing from ballot box one of Thaa atoll Thimarafushi constituency are blank ones, Elections Commission (EC) have revealed at a news conference held on Sunday night. Commission member Fuwad said that none of the votes cast in the ballot box were missing as assured by the report submitted by police officers present at the polling station on Election Day. “Police reports states that ballot box were never out of their sight; because of the large gathering that day, the box was kept under their protection till next day when counting started; as per police report all votes cast were safe;we do accept that some ballot papers are missing and that it is a serious matter, however, the missing ballot papers are blank ones not used for casting votes, as these are the remaining ballot papers it is a very case, we will respect the court’s verdict , if the court orders to cancel we would do what we have to do” Fuwad said. According to Fuwad, the commission’s investigations have not revealed the identity of the person who stole the ballot papers or what has happened to the blank ballot papers. “Again, the statistics I have received shows the number of voters and number of votes cast, these things match” Fuwad said. Previously Commission Member Mahir has said a video of the incident, clearly shows people rushing in and taking ballot papers when ballot box was opened and papers dumped on the table for counting. However, the same video aired on TVM on Sunday night shows no such thing but the video shows large crowds gathered there at the polling station near the box. Fuwad too expressed that he did not see any people rushing in and removing the ballot papers. Fuwad further assured that he and other members of the commission saw the same video. Despite difference among EC members, the first hearing of the now famous Thimarafushi case was held at High Court yesterday. DRP Candidate Qassan Maumoon, son of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, filed case with the High Court, alleging the vote was marred by intimidation, bribery and undue influence. He seeks a court ruling to cancel the provisional results announced for Thimarafushi constituency and to take vote. EC Commission Vice President Hussain Shiraj arguing the case out at High Court said no irregularity that could change the results occurred. He said he believed that parliamentary elections were free and fair as stipulated under Article 170(A) of the constitution.

Gayyoom Complains Receiving Pension Only After Removed from 30 Year Office

The former president Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom has said he is not receiving government promised assistance and monetary aids but only a handful of money as a pension for 20 years of government service. The unpopular so called secretariat of the former president’s office said that its staffs were paid only for 5 months from the government as promised but after 5 months it has been dissolved adding that Gayyoom and his wife Nasreena’s trip to Singapore for medical treatment government only granted half the cost while Gayyoom had to pay from his own wallet for his body guards of their airfare and stay in Singapore. The press secretary of the president’s office, Mohamed Zuhair retaliating to the statement from Gayyoom, said Nasheed’s government is doing everything possible for the former president to provide necessary grants and assistance but certain elements clashed government keeping a halt to promised grants. He said it was halted because a bill was sent to the parliament on providing former president the grants for his welfare and auditor General also has advised to halt the financial assistance to former president. Moreover he said Gayyoom was given several assistance and privileges such as official state vehicles for his transport.

Dhiyana Saeed dismissed by the President

President Mohamed Nasheed has today dismissed Fathimath Dhiyana Saeed from the post of Attorney General. The President’s Office cited Article 115(f) and 137(a) of the Constitution for the dismissal. In a letter to Dhiyana Saeed, President Nasheed expressed gratitude for services rendered during her tenure as Attorney General. She was appointed AG on 12th November 2008. Responding to queries regarding this widely expected dismissal, Press Secretary at the President’s Office, Mr. Mohamed Zuhair said that the main reason for this swift action is the recognition by the President that cabinet members serve with the confidence of the parliament and this will pave the way to appoint an Attorney General who would gain greater confidence of the new parliament. The new parliament of the Maldives, elected on 9th May 2009, will be sworn in later this month. It is widely expected that further changes to the cabinet will follow in the same context. Dhiyana Saeed, is a member of the Jumhooree Party, which suffered an embarrassing defeat in the recent election, in which its leader Qasim Ibrahim was the only one securing a parliament seat. One of their members received ‘zero’ votes, which is probably a world record, whilst the poor showing of the other candidates have led to speculation that their leader had made an 11th hour deal with the ousted Dictator and his cronies. Finance Minister, Ali Hashim, has been temporarily assigned to oversee the Attorney General's Office, according to the President's Office.

Will Gasim be the new Speaker?

Billionaire politician Gasim Ibrahim is likely to be the next Speaker of the People's Majlis which has just been elected under the new Constitution. The Majlis election held on 9 May has elected 77 members for the new Majlis. There are many new faces including four young women in the new Majlis. 64 members were elected from various political parties while former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's DRP won 28 seats with its alliance partner Gayoom's brother Yamin's PA winning 7 seats. Ruling MDP got 26 seats and no party has received a clear majority. Though more than 18 candidates contested from Gasim's Jumhoory Party, only Gasim won his own island Maamigil region seat. The candidates who won the election were largely on party basis mainly from DRP and DRP while smaller parties and independents did not do well in the election. This poses a serious question about the future and relevance of smaller parties in the rapidly transforming politics of Maldives. Now that the new Majlis is elected and the Elections Commission has announced official results of the election, the next important task would be swearing in the new Majlis and election of the new Speaker and Deputy Speaker. With the separation of powers and Majlis being given wider powers and responsibilities, the hot talk every where is who will be the next Speaker. There are names of few very eligible persons like former Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid, former Information Minister and leading lawyer Mohamed Nasheed, former minister and leader of PA Abdulla Yamin, former Minister and Deputy Leader of DRP Ahmed Thasmeen Ali, MDP's long serving MP Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, MDP's Chairperson Mariya Ahmed Didi, and former Minister and Speaker of Peopl's Special Majlis businessman Gasim Ibrahim. There are speculations DRP is trying to elect Abdullah Shahid as the new Speaker and Nasheed as Deputy while Gasim Ibrahim is also vying for the big post. On the MDP side, there are indications they will try to give the post to veteran MDP MP Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Ibu. Some political experts believe Gasim Ibrahim will be one of the formidable candidates, while many others feel the next Speaker will be one who is favored by the party which has the largest number of MPs on their side. So it is most likely the new Speaker will be one who is chosen by DRP, hence Abdullah Shahid may very likely be the new Speaker if DRP doses not want Gasim to get the post. However many feel Mohamed Nasheed is the best and most neutral person for the important post. But Nasheed has indicated he is keener to represent and speak for his constituency Kulhuduffushi South in the coming Majlis. At the same time there are many who also think Nasheed can give a huge contribution in the debates and business of the Majlis. There are some who think Yamin will be a good Speaker given his wide knowledge and experience. Mariya is another favorite person to take the new post especially when the country has to show in action it is truly committed to empowering women, and Mariya has proven her worth as an outstanding leader. Whatever it is, more people think Gasim has a better chance considering his ability in compiling the new Constitution under his leadership as Speaker of the Special Majlis. There are also many who support Gasim for his generosities. But what is difficult to forecast is how much of support he will get from DRP members and MDP members in the secret vote which will be taken in the first meeting of the new Majlis. Of late Gasim has been very critical of President Nasheed and MDP and he has distanced himself and his party from the MDP coalition though he has not officially withdrawn from the coalition. Gasim has also moved closer to DRP which has supported his candidature in the recent election,. Some think Gasim could not have won his Maamigili seat without DRP support. There are indications Gasim has been supporting DRP during the recent months especially in the election which gave DRP a lead over MDP. If DRP and some of the independent members support Gasim, there is no doubt that Gasim will be the next Speaker. If Gasim becomes next Speaker in the new democratic system, he will be fulfilling one of his life long ambitions though he has not been able to win the highest post of the country, the most prestigious and powerful post of President.

Sun Travel Shiyam top winner in the election

Leading tourism investor millionaire Sun Travel Ahmed Shiyam is the top winner among the 77 members elected to the new Majlis in 9 May's first multi-party parliamentary elections. Shiyam who is elected MP for Dhaalu Meedhoo Region has scored 86.5% votes while billionaire politician Gasim Ibrahim who won Mamigili seet received 72.6% votes. Third highest scorer is Rozaina Adam who is elected from Thulusdhoo region. She scored 61.93% votes. Abdul Ghafoor Moosa who won Kulhuduffusi north seat scored 60.08% votes and Biledhdhoo member Ahmed Hamza got 57.82% votes. Fourth timer Mohamed Hussain who won Kanditheemu seat scored 55.5% votes while Isdhoo member Ahmed Rasheed got 54.25 votes. Kaashidoo member Ismail Abdul Hameed scored 54.21% votes Galohlu North member Eva Abdullah won 54.09% votes and Fuamulah North Mohamed Rafeeg scored 53.61% votes. The official results of the election was announced yesterday leaving Thimarafushi results to be announced later as ruled by the High Court which is considering a case filed by candidate Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon. In the new Majlis there are few members who have served the Majlis many terms in their previous constituencies. Among them Hinnavaru member Ibrahim Solih is the longest serving and has served five terms while Kanditheemu member Mohamed Hussain and Velidhoo member Ali Mohamed have served four terms. Mulaku member Abdullah Yamin and Diggaru member Ahmed Nazim have both served three terms. Keyodhoo member Abdullah Shahid has also served three terms. There are several others who have served one or two terms bringing the new Majlis a wealth of experience. The new Majlis has a large number of young and new members while there are only four women members. As the new members come with considerable educational qualifications and quite a few of them being excellent speakers, the new Majlis will be very exciting with debates on important issues where members will have diverse views. Majlis is expected to pass a new Rules of Procedure which will introduce new concepts and codes of discipline to be followed in the Majlis and by members. Most of the business and bills will be deliberated in the committees. One hot issue to be decided by the new Majlis is a considerable salary reduction to be proposed by several members. Some members want reduce the salary by half. Members are expected to lobby hard for the faster development and more budgetary resources for their regions.

President meets Majlis Speaker

President Mohamed Nasheed on Sunday has met the Speaker of the People’s Majlis Mohamed Shihab, and the Deputy Speaker of the People’s Majlis Aneesa Ahmed. Speaking at the meeting, President Nasheed congratulated Speaker Shihab and Deputy Speaker Aneesa for their success in fulfilling their duties at the Majlis. The President noted that a lot of work under the transitional chapter of the new Constitution had completed within a very short period and expressed gratitude for the smooth running of the Majlis. Speaker Shihab and Deputy Speaker Aneesa expressed that they had worked in collaboration with the political parties represented in the Majlis as well as with the independent members during the constitutional reform process and that effort was made to complete the reform process as soon as possible. They also thanked all the members of the People’s Majlis for their cooperation. At the meeting, President Nasheed presented photo albums to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, which contained images depicting their services to the country. The President was joined at the meeting by Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed.

Planning Department: Inflation down 1.12 percent last month

The inflation rate in Malé has gone down 1.12 percent last month compared to March this year, the Department of National Planning has said.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Department said that the major price reductions in Malé market had occurred in fish products, garments and shoes. According to their statistics, the inflation rate of fish products had gone down 19.17 percent in April. The statistics say that the price of skipjack tuna had gone down 36 percent in April compared to March, and that the price of other types of fresh fish had gone down 33 percent, while the price of reef fish was down 17 percent.

The Planning Department also said that the price of some food items such as chilies, carrots, cucumbers, and ginger had gone up during April, while the prices of tomatoes, cabbages, onions, potatoes, eggs, coconuts, lemons, dried chilies, basmati rice, and canned food products had gone down.

The price of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, oranges and apples had gone down last month, the statistics said. Although many food and beverage items had gone down in prices during April, it is worth noting that building rents had gone up by 1.28 percent.

The inflation rate in the education sector had risen by 26.30 percent, the Planning Department said, while tuition fees soared by 67 percent. The Department further said that the inflation rate in Malé was higher by 4.28 percent this year when compared to the same month last year.

Police investigating child sexual abuse case in Thimarafushi

The case of a young girl in Thaa atoll Thimarafushi being sexually abused by a man from the island is under investigation by the Maldives Police Service.

A Police Media Offiical said that the case had been reported to the Police but that no one had been arrested in connection to the incident yet.

A resident of the island said that an old man from the island had sexually abused the young girl, who is studying in Grade 7 of the Thimarafushi Island School, at his house. He said that some people who were suspicious about his activities had spied on him on previous occasions too.

Foreign diplomats present credentials to the President

The new High Commissioner of Brunei to the Maldives Abdul Ghafar Ismail, the new Ambassador of Japan, Kunio Takahashi and the new Ambassador of Qatar to the Maldives, Saed Abdullah Al Masoori have presented their credentials to President Nasheed. The three separate ceremonies were held on Sunday at the President's Office.

Following the presentation, the President met with the three diplomats and discussed with the Ambassadors on ways of strengthening bilateral relations and on possible areas of cooperation.

The Ambassadors expressed happiness for having the opportunity to serve in the Maldives as Ambassadors of their respective countries. They also expressed confidence that the Maldives would attain greater prosperity and development during the tenure of President Nasheed. President Nasheed thanked the Ambassadors for the kind sentiments expressed. He also expressed the strong wish to maintain and expand friendly relations and reinforce mutually beneficial cooperation between the Maldives and the respective countries.

Rogue elements in police attack state minister

Minister of State for Housing, Transport and Environment, Mr. Aslam Shakir, was beaten up by rogue elements in the Maldives Police Service’s Star Force division last night, whilst he took part in a public demonstration outside Alivaage, the current residence of the ousted dictator. The crowd gathered near Alivaage to pressure the current government to prosecute the former dictator and his cronies in accordance with the law.

According to Mr. Shakir, he was exercising his constitutional right to freedom of assembly and expression. “I had every right to be there and join in with the crowd calling for ‘transitional’ justice. It was a peaceful demonstration but I was singled out by some rogue elements in the police. They pulled me away and tried to shove me on to the ground. As a result, I have bruises in my legs and body. I was manhandled by these elements despite the fact that our government is totally against such unlawful practices,” Aslam described his ordeal. “I have full confidence in the Police and I urge them to carry out a full investigation into this and other similar incidents that occurred recently. We all know who are organizing these rogue activities and trying to create civil unrest. After 30 years of dictatorship, one can’t expect institutions like the Police services to be cleaned up in just a few months. There are still agents of the former regime working in these institutions. We need to identify and deal with them swiftly in order that these institutions regain the full confidence of the public,” the minister added.

Mr. Aslam is now recovering from his ordeal but vows to fight for his rights. This act will not deter him from participating in such public activities in the future.

Court Adjourned without Verdict on Ghassan-Thimarafushi Case

The High Court today convened to its first hearing of the most controversial case of Thimarafushi voting that Human Rights Commission and some others showed concern. The case was filed by Ghassan Maumoon who lost the constituency seat for some other candidate in the preliminary results.

Large number of crowed gathering near the High Court Building with long queues to seek a glimpse of the hearing, the court began its session today morning. The two and half hour long prosecution the lawyer Ghassan Abbas Shareef said that there had been several incidents that occurred during the Thimarafushi voting especially with the Ballot box one. He said the one of the two booths for voter to ink his decision at the center one was completely covered where the voter’s movements cannot be seen suggesting the voter at that booth can forge as many votes as he can.

A video was also shown at the court session that showed a group of people entering the voting station when the ballot box was opened and voting papers were taken for counting. The video then showed the officials putting the ballot papers back into the box. But the video did not show any one touching or taking out any ballot paper.

The Assistant Commissioner of the Elections Commission defending the ballot said that they had investigated the case and collected statements from the officials and security present at the station were analyzed but had not find any breach or irregularity raising question over the transparency and accuracy of the vote.

The court ended today without going further with the case.

Elections Commission: Illegal activities were evident during Thimarafushi ballot counting

Voting at the ballot box in Thaa atoll Thimarafushi during the parliamentary elections held on 9 May didn’t go as it was intended and several illegal activities were also carried out rather obviously during the procedure, the Elections Commission has said.

In an interview with the media on Friday night, Elections Commissions member Mohamed Mahir said that the report submitted by the official overseeing the voting process at the No. 1 ballot box in Thimarafushi indicated that 115 ballot papers had gone missing and that such an incident would compromise the validity of the vote.

“The way I see it, even if it was empty ballot papers or marked ballot papers, the fact that they had gone missing is cause for concern,” Mahir said. “The ballot would be valid if the marked papers and counterfoil added up. If some of the ballot papers were counted, some had gone missing, and others papers weren’t counted then this raises questions about the validity of the ballot.”

He said that while reviewing the video footage of the scene when the ballot box from Thimarafushi had been emptied onto the table for counting, they had seen a large number of people gather around the table, in direct violation of procedure, and some had even taken some of the ballot papers.

Presidential Committee set up to probe embezzlement issues

President Mohamed Nasheed on Saturday has established a 5 member presidential commission to investigate alleged embezzlement of state funds and properties by certain individuals.

President’s Office said as serious embezzlement of state funds have been reported by concerned authorities, the President formed the commission under the powers granted to him under Article 115(P) of the constitution to investigate and take urgent steps to recover the embezzled funds.

Ali Shiyam, Economic Advisor to the President was appointed as the President of the Commission. Other members include Minister of State, Principal Collector of Customs Mohamed Aswan, Idham Muiz Adnan, Abdulla Haseen and Shabab Rasheed.

The commission was formed as an independent commission with full legal powers to investigate the embezzlement cases. The commission is also empowered to summon any person and take statements which may be used as evidences, instruct the Police to arrest any person under investigation by the commission attempting to leave the country or withhold the passport of such a person.

Further, the commission also has the power to demand and collect any document that has bearing on a case under investigation from any government ministry or from any institution and submit the collected evidences and information to Maldives Police Services and Anti Corruption Committee for necessary action.

Auditor General Ibrahim Naeem during his recent audits on various government ministries and departments has raised serious issues on embezzlement and misappropriation of state funds by officials of various ranks.

President Mohamed Nasheed in a message published on occasion of Fishermen’s Day has expressed that cases involving misappropriation of public money must be looked into and such money must be recovered. More recently while speaking to the people of Kolufushi on Monday 27 April the president has said misappropriation of state funds will be taken very seriously. He warned that legal action will be taken against anyone found guilty of misappropriation.

Fishing vessel in Gulhee lagoon severely damaged in fire

A fishing vessel in Kaafu atoll Gulhee lagoon was severely damaged in a fire.

Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Afzal of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) said that the when the fishing vessel “Tharaqqee”, owned by Ali Adam of Municipality Khaassa Dhaftharu, caught on fire there were two expatriates and one Maldivian onboard. However, no one was injured in the incident, he said.

According to an eyewitness at the Gulhee Boatyard, really heavy smoke could be seen coming out from the boat’s engine room area before it burst into flame. He further said that the iceboxes, cabin and other areas of the vessel had been severely damaged in the fire. A loud noise was heard before the fire, he said.

Police and the MNDF said that that the engine and everything on the fishing vessel had been damaged in the fire. A Police Media Official said that the fire had been caused due to a problem with the engine, but did not go into details

Breaking News

20:55 - "Elections Final result will be announce on tomorrow" Election Commission

22:00 - more than 400 "Anti-maumoon" protesters gathered near Alivaage.

High security near "Muliaage" after protesters gathered near Nasandhura and Alivaage.

MDP Supporters are gathering infront of Elections main centre (nasandhura palace hotel)

19:45
MPD supporters are gathering in front of Elections Commission main center (Nasandhura palace hotel), Reporter confirmed that more than Hundreds of peoples are protesting against elections commissions. Protesters are calling to elections commission to announce Thimarafushi ballot the Final result. Reporter has confirmed that DRP candidate Gassan Maumoon's campaign team and MDP candidate Musthofa's campaign team held a meeting with the elections commission members.

Elections Commission Must Void Controversial Thimarafushi Ballot -HRCM Member

The Thimarafushi ballot in the parliamentary election has raised several doubtful questions and the Human Rights Commission has voiced concern over its accuracy. It said announcing the preliminary and final results of the ballot, before any conclusion to what appears in discriminatory results of the controversy over the ballot, has also raised concern. Speaking to media, Ahmed Abdul Kareem said the unfavorable conditions during the vote; there is no legal barrier to come to a conclusion for Elections Commission. There had been controversial issues with the two ballot boxes in Thimarafushi including the closing of the ballot boxes in aligned with election legislation, failing to close the envelopes that contained voters choices, the unmarried balance of ballot papers and counter foils were some of the noticed issues in the constituency ballot boxes. It also discriminates the monitors and observers joined to count vote and the missing of 115 ballot papers from the counter. Moreover, the contradiction to the Thimarafushi ballots significantly diminishing effectiveness as campaign activities continued during the voting, Mr. Kareem said the ballot at Thimarafushi should be void. He said it was only the ballot at Thimarafushi to void the May 9 election that there was no any other similar case in any area in the country. Many politicians and parties has said the election went generally eventless and fair.

Final Results of the Parliamentary Election to be Announced Tonight

The May 9 election of the parliament with its preliminary results showing the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) winning the most votes, Elections Commissions is to announce the final results amid voiced concern from Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) over the controversy of Thimarafushi vote. The Elections Commission says the final result announcement will commence before 10:00pm tonight but there is still doubt about announcing the Thimarafushi final result. It said it still is uncertain to make a conclusion. The elections commission member Fuadh Thaufeeq said the commission is seeking legal advice on the Thimarafushi issue. Mohamed Mahir, another commission member from the Elections Commission said the voting in Thimarafushi went unlawfully and there is doubt about the accuracy and legality of the Thimarafushi Vote.

World Bank to grant US$3.8 million loan to develop pension, social security program

The World Bank has agreed to loan US$3.8 million (Rf48.8 million) to Maldives to develop its pension program and social security system.

According to the Bank’s website, the loan, which has a 10-year grace period, should be repaid in 40 years.

“The introduction of a new pension scheme will provide a degree of income protection for the elderly and is a much-needed progressive step or the Maldives as at present, the majority of workers do not participate in a pension scheme of any kind,” said Naoko Ishii, World Bank Country Director for Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

He further said that the World Bank’s loan would help kickstart and lay the foundation for the country’s social protection program.

The loan was approved on Tuesday, just a day before President Mohamed Nasheed ratified the pensions bill which was approved by the People’s Majlis on 29 April.

Father, five others, arrested for sexually molesting daughter

The Maldives Police Service has arrested the father of a young girl and five other men on charges of sexually molesting the young girl.

Speaking at the news conference held at the Police Headquarters, the Head of the Child and Family Protection Unit, Inspector Mirufath Faiz said that they were investigating the reports of a 45-year-old man from Haa Dhaalu atoll Naivaidhoo sexually abusing his 10-year-old daughter when they found that five other men had also sexually molested the little girl. Although the Police did not reveal the names of the men they said that they had arrested the girl’s 52-year-old uncle, a 73-year-old man from Naivaidhoo, a 36-year-old man from Thimarafushi, a 19-year-old man from Naivaidhoo and a 50-year-old man from Naivaidhoo.

According to Mirufath, other than the girl’s father and uncle, the others were friends of the father and the girl’s step-mother. However Police did not reveal when and where the girl had been abused in case the information compromised the investigation.

“The men had been sexually molesting her since she was five years old,” Mirufath said.

Police said that the abuse had occurred when the girl was living away from her mother with her father and step-mother. Mirufath further said that the investigation had revealed that the girl’s father and uncle had molested her at the same time even. She confirmed that the doctor’s report indicated that the girl had suffered serious physical and psychological trauma due to the abuse.

Cartunes’ bonded-warehouse in Thilafushi burns down

The bonded-warehouse in Thilafushi owned by Cartunes burned down on Friday morning, destroying 36 vehicles that were inside.

Ibrahim Sujau, an official from Cartunes, said that that the fire had caused a loss of more than Rf17 million. The fire destroyed the warehouse, built on a 10,000sqft area in Thilafushi, and includes a showroom, workshop and staff quarters.

Sujau said that he had heard about the fire on Friday morning around 7:10am, when someone from the warehouse had called him up and told him. He further said that 28 cars and 8 motorcycles inside the warehouse were completely destroyed in the accident. In addition, there were a large amount of spare parts inside the warehouse which were also damaged beyond use, he said. The workshop that was destroyed by the fire was a new addition to the warehouse to be used for paint work and hadn’t been put into use yet, Sujau said.

A Police Media Official said that they had received the report about the fire at the Cartunes’ bonded-warehouse around 7:15am on Friday and that the fire was brought under control by 8:30am.

A team from the Police’s Serious and Organized Crimes Unit is investigating the scene of the fire to find the cause. The Police Media Official said that that evidence seemed to indicate that the fire had originated on the eastern side of the warehouse.

DRP did not win expected number of seats – DRP Leader

Dhivehi Rahyithunge Party (DRP) leader, former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has said he expected the party to win more seats in the historic parliamentary elections held on Saturday.

Speaking to media on Thursday from Male’ International Airport, on his return from India, he said his party was unable win the expected number of seats. He said there were many voting irregularities in various constituencies. As such the elections was not as free and fair as it should have been, former president who ruled the country for 3 decades said. In the campaign trail, DRP leader has said that his party was aiming to secure 60 seats in the parliament. He has said 60 parliamentary seats were imperative to the continued success.

When asked to comment on the planned demonstration by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) member Recco Moosa Manik and supporters, the former President declined to comment, saying that he does not wish to say anything on the subject.

President Gayoom visited India on 9 May to seek medical care for his wife former first lady Nasreena Ibrahim, after casting vote in the country’s first ever presidential elections. The historic election gave the main opposition party most number of seats in the new parliament formed under the revised constitution. DRP and its ally People’s Alliance (PA) were able to win 35 seats, just 4 seats short of securing a majority voting bloc in the parliament. The ruling party, MDP won 26 seats. Other parties forming the coalition government like Jumhoory Party (JP) and Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP) also won seats. JP won one seat while DQP secured 2 seats. Independent candidates secured some 12 seats.

Speaking to media on Wednesday, DRP Deputy Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali said despite some minor issues in some constituencies, the election was generally free and fair. He attributed the success of DRP to ideals and policies of the party and the untiring efforts of party members and supporters. He said the election showed that the pulse of DRP was the pulse of the nation.

Large number DRP members and supporters greeted the former president on his arrival at Male’.

A fresh vote to be taken in Thimarafushi constituency

The provisional results of the historic parliamentary elections announced for Thaa Thimarafushi constituency is to be cancelled and voting in the constituency is to he held again, according to reliable sources. According to information received the decision was taken due to many voting irregularities in the constituency and due to many issues raised by the candidates who contested Thaa Thimarafushi seat. Candidates have highlighted irregularities in vote counting as well as issues with the ballot boxes in the constituency. Dhivehi Rahyihtunge Party (DRP) Deputy Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali speaking to media on Wednesday said that he will not accept the results announced for Thaa Thimarafushi constituency. He said there were several irregularities during voting and vote counting and that every effort would be made under the laws of the country to change the results and secure the Thimarafushi seat. DRP candidate Qassan Maumoon, son of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who contested Thaa atoll Thimarafushi constituency, on Tuesday filed the case at High Court seeking a court order to cancel the results of 2 ballot boxes positioned in the island and to take a fresh vote in the constituency. The case filed on behalf of DRP candidate Qassan Maumoon was submitted along with necessary evidence to prove the case, according to information received. Speaking to the media on Monday, Qassan’s brother Farish Maumoon said undue influence was exerted during parliamentary voting in Thaa Thimarafushi constituency. He said they were in the process of collecting evidence and other pertinent details necessary to submit the case to High Court. According to Farish, in addition to exertion of heavy political influence, intimidation and bribery, death threats were also given. He noted that even some of the were Election Observers came under attack and the despite the election commission’s regulations to commence counting of votes within an hour of ballot boxes being closed, vote counting began several hours later. According to provisional election results, MDP candidate Mohamed Mustapha won the Thimarafushi seat and DRP candidate Qassan Maumoon came second.

VP calls on SAARC to strengthen cooperation

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has called on SAARC countries to strengthen cooperation to overcome the impact of global economic downturn. The Vice President made this remark while speaking at the third meeting of the SAARC Finance Ministers that was held on Thursday morning at Bandos Island Resort. He also noted that most of the SAARC member countries had been quick to respond to the situation and “introduce measures to ease the impact of the credit crunch, to create greater liquidity and to stimulate their economies”. In his speech, the Vice President underlined that as part of the democratization process, the government of Maldives has undertaken many economic reform measures. “The budget deficit has been curtailed, much of the PSIP is being considered for private sector financing through PPP, strict budgetary controls put in place to prevent wasteful spending, and a strong push for foreign investment through joint ventures”, said Dr Waheed. Noting that the drug issue was one of the greatest challenges that we face in the Maldives, Dr Waheed stressed the need for preventing drug abuse, crime and terrorism and said that “these are all threats to our economies”.

Draft of Maldives National Building Act published

Ministry of Housing Transport and Environment (MHTE) have published the first draft of Maldives National Building Act for public comment. The draft Act is available for download from the ministry’s website.

MHTE has revealed that those who wished to comment on the draft Act may do so before 1430 hours on 31May, either in writing or via email.

In addition, a discussion on the draft Act has been scheduled for 2June 2009 at 1100 hours at the Ministry. Ministry has urged members of the public wishing to participate in the discussion to notify the ministry in advance.

Housing Minister Mohamed Aslam has said that due to lack of adequate and standardized building code, members of the public and construction companies have faced enormous difficulties. President of Male’ Municipality Adam Manik has said that land for housing is scarce in Maldives and that lack of adequate legislation on providing land has aggravated public dissatisfaction.

President Nasheed: Democracy was victorious in general elections

The Parliamentary elections held in Maldives last Saturday proved an important exercise towards consolidating democracy in the Maldives, President Mohamed Nasheed has said। He made the statement in a press release issued by the President’s Office on Wednesday and added that democracy was therefore the victor in the general elections.
Noting that the arresting of key political figures for politically motivated reasons during periods of regime change and elections in the past had been the biggest obstruction for establishing good governance, the President expressed his pleasure for having been able to hold the parliamentary elections without recourse to such actions.
President Nasheed also noted that the general elections showed that the confidence of the people and opposition parties in multiparty democracy had increased. He therefore thanked and congratulated the people for their participation in the process and underlined the fact that key figures from the opposition had contested in the elections, which demonstrated such confidence and trust in the democratic system. He also congratulated the DRP and PA for their success.
Highlighting that the Saturday’s parliamentary elections were the most free and fair elections held so far in the Maldives, President Nasheed assured that the government would facilitate opposition parties to fulfill their important role in democratic politics.
In the media release, President Nasheed also congratulated the Maldivian Democratic Party and noted that elections showed the public support for MDP had increased since the runoff of the presidential election last October when it contested in an alliance.
President Nasheed further said that he believed the results of the elections showed the level of confidence that the people have in multiparty political system. The President said that the government would continue with development projects in an equitable manner without discrimination in respect of different political affiliations.

Health Ministry: More than 22,000 passengers tested for swine flu

More than 20,000 passengers to Maldives have been screened in their efforts stop swine flu (Inluenza A H1N1) from spreading to Maldives, the Health Ministry has said.

Of all the passengers screened for swine flu symptoms at the International Airport and seaport, only one person has been flagged as a potential victim and tested so far. The test had proven negative for swine flu however.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that swine flu infections had been confirmed in 30 countries so far, and many of the countries, such as China, Hong Kong and Korea, are popular destinations among Maldivians. The Health Ministry has issued a statement cautioning Maldivians not to travel to those countries unless absolutely necessary and even then to take proper precautions before leaving.

Four people seriously injured in Baarah disturbance

Two people were stabbed and two others injured during a disturbance involving a street gang in Haa Alifu atoll Baarah.

Baarah Councilor Ali Shameem said on Wednesday that the incident had occurred around 11:00pm during a stage show. One of the victims, Ahmed Shareef, of Iramaage, had been stabbed multiple times, while another resident of the house, Mohamed Muhaimin, had also been stabbed in the gut.

The Councilor also said that the two others who had been injured were believed to those who were responsible for the disturbance, Mohamed Rihaan of Blueniyaa, and Farooq Shihab of Noor Vaadhee. He further said that the injuries to Farooq’s head had been so serious that he was going to be transferred to Malé for treatment.

Police said that three of those who were injured in the incident were being given treatment at the Haa Alifu atoll Dhidhdhoo Hospital.

“The gang members responsible for the violence were carrying huge knives,” Shameem said. “So the small children and others who were watching the stage show at the time are still in shock.”

He further said that the violence had been carried out by a group that had campaigned for a candidate in the island.

Police said that they had arrested three people in connection to the incident so far. They are Ali Shaam, 19, of Happy Rose; Mohamed Rihaan, 19, of Blueniyaa / Baarah; and Ali Thasleem, 22, of Patra.

Police arrest woman on alcohol possession charges

A woman in Malé was arrested in connection to the discovery of a large amount of alcohol bottles, the Maldives Police Service has said.

A Police Media Official said that bottles were found inside a room in M. Karine Light Uthurubai during a special operation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Unit. The woman they arrested was a 25-year-old Maldivian woman who had rented the room in the house. Police said they had found 90 bottle of Smirnoff Brandy in the room.

Police further said that the owner of the house had no knowledge about the alcohol found in the room and added that they were still investigating the case.

Cabinet deliberates on work of National Planning Council

Members deliberated on the work of the National Planning Council at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

The mandate of the National Planning Council includes, formulating and coordinating national development policies; establishing national development targets and deadlines; as well as, consulting and determining regional development plans based on resource availability in the regions. The National Planning Council will be headed by President Mohamed Nasheed.

Members also discussed on the areas from which members should be nominated. At a previous cabinet meeting it was decided that a member will be nominated from the civil society and the private sector.

At today's meeting, members of the Cabinet were allowed time to address queries to the President as the procedure has been approved recently.

Stab victim in critical condition

A man who was stabbed several times during a fight between two gangs in Malé is being treated in the ICU of the ADK Hospital.

A Police Media Official said that the 20-year-old man had suffered serious wounds on his chest and back from a sharp object. The attack had occurred on Muthee Goalhi in Henveiru Ward. Police did not reveal the identity of the victim.

The Managing Director of ADK Hospital, Ahmed Affaal, said that the patient’s status was critical.

Police said that it wasn’t clear why the confrontation between the gangs had occurred and that they had arrested two people in connection to the attack. An eyewitness at the scene said that it was an argument about politics that had escalated into violence.

The incident had occurred sometime after the Police had dispersed a demonstration organized by DRP members who claimed that the results of the parliamentary elections had been rigged.

Four arrested on drugs-related charges in Hinnavaru, Dhuvaafaru

Four people were arrested from Raa atoll Dhuvaafaru and Lhaviyani atoll Hinnavaru on drugs-related charges, the Maldives Police Service has said.

According to the Maldives Police Service website, three men were arrested in Hinnavaru on Monday night around 9:00pm, following a report made by some residents about a group who were abusing drugs inside a house in the island. When Police checked the house they had found 13 small packets containing drugs in addition to several implements used in the abuse of drugs, the Police website said. Police also said that two of the men they had arrested were 29 years old and one of them was 22 years old but did not reveal their identities.

The other person who was arrested was an 18-year-old boy who had been trying to smuggle drugs into the Raa atoll Hulhudhuffaaru. Police had been tipped off about the teenager and he was apprehended after a packet containing a brown, powdery substance believed to be drugs were found in his luggage. Police revealed the identity of the person as Ahmed Amjad, of Anjaamuge / Raa atoll Kandholhudhoo

DRP - PA coalition wins most seats at parliamentary election

The provisional result of the country’s first multiparty parliamentary elections was announced on Tuesday night at 10:15pm by the Commissioner of Elections Mohamed Ibrahim. According to the announcement, the DRP won 28 seats while the PA, which is in a coalition with the DRP, won seven seats, in effect giving the DRP-PA coalition 35 seats at the People’s Majlis. The MDP followed DRP closely with 28 seats, while the Dhivehi Qaumee Party (QDP) candidates won two seats. The Jumhooree Party (JP) also won one seat. Independent candidates fared better than both QDP and JP, winning a total of 13 seats.