Maldivian Ambassador to Japan Ahmed Mahloof has stated that residents of Malé City are attending President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s community meetings to openly share their concerns, warning that political interference undermines the purpose of these forums.

In a post on X, Ambassador Mahloof said the President has been conducting a series of community meetings to listen directly to citizens’ grievances, including longstanding struggles related to housing, income, and social challenges. He noted that people value the rare opportunity to communicate their hardships to the Head of State without intermediaries.

Ambassador Mahloof said the atmosphere of these meetings had been negatively affected by individuals attempting to disrupt proceedings for political purposes. He stressed that political activity has appropriate platforms, and should not interfere with the public’s chance to address the President.

According to Ambassador Mahloof, political work belongs on podiums, rallies, demonstrations, social media, and television programmes, and should not obstruct the interaction between citizens and the President during these dedicated forums.

The remarks follow public criticism on social media after a small number of attendees attempted to interrupt the latest meeting held with residents of Maafannu. Many expressed frustration that such disruptions prevented vulnerable individuals from voicing concerns that they had waited years to raise.

President Dr Muizzu has so far met with residents of Villimalé, Machangolhi, and Maafannu as part of a widening effort to engage directly with communities in the Greater Malé Region. These meetings have featured detailed testimonies on housing shortages, economic hardship, job insecurity, and challenges in accessing essential services.