Political rivalry is an inevitable part of democracy, but when children become collateral damage in partisan battles, a line must be drawn.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's family has condemned what they describe as a disturbing and escalating trend in Maldivian politics—targeting the children of public figures for ridicule and defamation.

In this regard, First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed issued a statement highlighting that the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) exploits minors for political gain, adding that such attacks violate ethical boundaries, threaten children’s safety, and set a dangerous precedent for the nation’s political discourse.

Unfortunately, this tactic of targeting political leaders’ families has become increasingly common in Maldivian politics, with no clear boundaries on what is considered acceptable discourse. This is not the first time such actions have occurred, and if left unchecked, it will not be the last. The First Lady, in her statement, insists that this cycle must be broken before it becomes a permanent feature of political culture, eroding the nation’s values and ethical standards.

The statement alleged that President Dr Muizzu’s children have been deliberately targeted through traditional and social media, with false allegations and unauthorised publication of names, photographs, and personal details. Such actions, the statement read, not only compromise the safety and dignity of those involved but also reflect a deeper erosion of ethical standards in political discourse.

A particularly alarming example is the recent accusation against the President’s 16-year-old son, who was alleged to have been vaping and smoking. Legal counsel Uza Aishath Azima Shakoor, speaking on behalf of the First Lady, categorically denied these claims, calling them fabrications intended to discredit the President by association. The First Lady, through her statement, expressed deep concern over what she described as the growing normalisation of defaming political figures’ children, warning that such irresponsible behaviour can have long-term consequences for their well-being and future prospects.

The statement reiterated that all children in the Maldives are protected under the Constitution and legal frameworks governing child rights. As such, dragging minors into political battles is both unethical and unacceptable.

The First Lady further emphasised that neither she nor the President’s children have any role in political affairs, yet they continue to be targeted and vilified. She also pointed out that even their younger son, just eight years old, has been subjected to similar treatment.

Beyond the personal attacks, the First Lady also highlighted the relentless  criticism and mockery President Dr Muizzu has faced since taking office. She maintained that while political opposition is expected, there must be boundaries, especially when it comes to protecting children from public humiliation and abuse. Exploiting minors for political mileage is not just an attack on individuals but a violation of fundamental moral principles. 

The First Lady called for greater accountability in political discourse, urging all parties to respect the dignity and rights of children. If no one speaks out now, she warned, this pattern will continue, harming not just individual families but the very foundations of a respectful and responsible democracy. She reaffirmed her commitment to protecting not only her own children but all children in the Maldives, urging a return to ethical political conduct that upholds both human dignity and national values.