Rival factions in Meemu Raiymandhoo, a small island with about 300 people, clashed during President Muizzu’s visit over their proposed relocation to a larger island with more public services. During a meeting with the community, which was bitterly divided over the move, the president assured that relocation would only proceed with the support of at least 80 percent of the people. “We’re getting to the point where there won’t be anyone to lift my coffin when I die,” one man was quoted as saying.
The Bank of Maldives announced the launch of Chinese Yuan accounts, enabling international transfers and letters of credit in the Chinese currency. Customers can also use BML-issued Visa and Mastercard to make payments on WeChat Pay and accept Yuan payments to WeChat Wallets.
With effect from November 11, foreign transaction limits on BML debit card will increase from US$ 500 to US$ 1,000 for POS transactions overseas, whilst airline tickets and hotel payments will be capped at US$ 3,000, President Muizzu announced in Meemu Muli. He also announced that US dollar ATMs will be established on 40 islands early next year.
The civil court ordered former MDP MP Ahmed Saleem to pay MVR 15,000 (US$ 972) to cover the legal costs of the Dhiyares news site and former editor Heena Waleed after dismissing a defamation lawsuit. Saleem had sought MVR 10 million in damages over a report from June 2022 alleging his appearance in a gay sex tape. The court ruled it could not hear the case citing a complaint made to the Media Council required Saleem to waive the right to sue.
The finance ministry came under fire for refusing to disclose the wage bill for political appointees. An official claimed at a session with the Information Commissioner that the ministry did not know the total salary cost in response to an RTI request.
During President Muizzu’s ongoing tour of four south-central atolls, MTCC was contracted to expand the harbour and reclaim 15 hectares of land to more than double the size of the 12-hectare island of Meemu Naalafushi. Addressing the island community, Muizzu pledged to expand the health centre’s services, build a futsal court and complete a new school by the next academic year. MTCC meanwhile launched a project to develop a fitness and recreation centre. Construction also began on police stations for Muli and Naalafushi.
The health ministry awarded the Meemu Dhiggaru hospital project to MTCC during President Muizzu’s visit to the island, during which he also pledged to construct 75 housing units, upgrade the harbour, and build nine new classrooms and a multi-purpose hall. In Maduvvari, he promised sports infrastructure and a new leeward harbour.
President Muizzu established the Digital Transformation Council with a mandate to “facilitate, guide, and oversee the implementation of the roadmap formulated to realise the 'Maldives 2.0 – Digital-First Nation' vision.” The 10-member council, comprised mainly of ministers, is chaired by the president.
The Thyroxine 25 microgram medication is covered under the Aasandha scheme, the government health insurance company clarified following complaints on social media about unavailability at the STO Pharmacy and price discrepancies at private outlets. Aasandha directed patients to use the "Shikaavathi" portal for complaints when medications are unavailable. Thyroxine 25 is prescribed for children with Down syndrome, autism, and hypothyroidism.
On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Foreign Minister Khaleel signed an MoU with Hungary for 25 annual scholarships for Maldivian students.
Former president Nasheed's office accused the government of refusing to arrange a pass to enter the UN headquarters for the General Assembly. Despite serving as Secretary General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, Nasheed said he needed to represent the Maldives with its flag and emblem as a former head of state and speaker of parliament.
Former president Yameen said he no longer supports implementing the death penalty, citing lack of confidence in the judiciary. Yameen had attempted to lift a de facto moratorium during his administration.
