President Muizzu ordered police to stop and question foreigners found on the streets between midnight and 6am. Some foreign residents engage in behaviour that violates public order and social norms, he alleged, as police announced “targeted operational measures” across all inhabited islands, during which officers will “conduct routine checks and inspections of expatriate individuals found in public areas” after midnight. Migrant workers “found resting or sleeping in public spaces may be examined to determine compliance with applicable residency, employment, and immigration laws and regulations,” police said, warning of strict action and referral of undocumented workers to Immigration.
President Muizzu met with owners of small and medium-sized businesses at a town hall meeting in Malè. After listening to their concerns and grievances for more than three hours, Muizzu pledged to address complaints about high air cargo demurrage fees. The airport operator will extend the free storage period from 80 to 124 hours, he said. Other concerns included having to pay taxes despite the failure of government ministries and state-owned companies to clear outstanding payments owed for supplies, services or completed projects. One owner proposed offsetting pending payments against tax liabilities.
Former national football team goalkeeper and auditing expert Ismail Zariyand was put forward as a candidate for Malé mayor by the People’s National Front, an opposition party led by former President Yameen. Zariyand announced his candidacy at a PNF rally dubbed ‘Reset’ at Malé’s artificial beach. The party accused the government of obstructing the event by refusing to provide electricity despite prior permit applications, forcing organisers to use a generator.
Former defence minister Moosa Ali Jaleel became the People’s National Congress candidate for Malé mayor. The retired major general was the only person who sought the ruling party’s ticket to contest in April’s local council elections. The PNC's primaries are scheduled to take place on December 27, MP Ibrahim Falah, the party's campaign manager, announced at a press briefing.
New regulations on expatriate employment gazetted earlier this week was amended to exempt babysitters from jobs restricted to Maldivians. The new rules halted the recruitment of foreign copilots, boat captains and cashiers, while the issuance of quotas for several other professions – including teachers, nurses, pilots, divers, tour guides, guest relations officers, front office managers and housekeeping managers – will be phased out after specified transition periods.
A Russian tourist was reported missing in Alif Alif Ukulhas. The man, who was staying at La Palma Suites, was due to depart on Wednesday morning but had not been seen since Tuesday evening.
Two boat captains arrested during last week's protest by the Union of Yellowfin Tuna Fishermen were released from police custody. Following talks with the fisheries minister, the union ended the week-long strike on Wednesday.
MDP MP Mohamed Ibrahim asked the speaker to initiate an inquiry through the SOE oversight committee into safety standards and risk-mitigation measures at the State Electricity Company following the death of an employee at a Hulhumalé power station.
