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Open Forum - April 2004

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OPEN FORUM MAIN - AUGUST 2004 - JULY 2004 - JUNE 2004 - MAY 2004 - APRIL 2004 - MARCH 2004 - ARCHIVES

It seems our beloved cultural Minister thinks that by holding a few shows of Hindi and English songs plus launching a movie or two by one director and running a band to sing praise for the dear leader is what is needed to review our culture. He doesn't have a slightest clue on what his main job is. It is to create an environment to facilitate production of creative works, visual or otherwise so that the country will have a viable entertainment, creative arts industry that is a force to reckon nationally and internationally. Why don't you ask the few who are surviving to give you some ideas on how to do this- Since you have proved over the years you don't know, are incapable and unqualified to do the job.

Advisor
USA - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 19:28:27 (MDT)

The script including the sentences will be given before the trial of Maafushi prison scandal. it is just a show. That's why we don't bother to read the censored versions in Haveeru or any other local newspapers. The whole Maldives is a coffin or a large prison which consist of a handcuffed dying generation, intellectually and spiritually. The last ceremony in NSS, awarding most of tortures is the final bolt in this coffin as said by one of fellow Maldivian in
this form.

youth
Maldives - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 19:02:50 (MDT)

"An informed democracy will behave in a responsible fashion." -- Thomas Jefferson
"Where the press is free, and every man able to read, all is safe." -- Thomas Jefferson

the101things <the101things@hotmail.com >
Maldives - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 13:49:27 (MDT)

Sappe if you're not so busy please visit this link and think about it. It must be noted that even for the Super power, there's problem with their foreign policy, political set-up and even in the justice system. Bye and have good weekend. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/3674355.stm

Non Aligned Man
Male Maldives - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 13:33:31 (MDT)

I am not against the MDP, and infact I give my full support to MDP, but because of my conditions at home and here where I am sitting, I can give my suggestions how to improve the activities of MDP and other activities related aiming for the democracy and humanity.

meean <jeekoahmed@yahoo.com >
USA - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 11:42:14 (MDT)

congratulations to Maldivian swimming association. hope such programs (the swimming festival) will be conducted through out the country and not only in Male' and will measure success of it by number of people who learned swimming and first aid rather than number of programs conducted. thanks.

Aristotle
Utopia - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 08:56:28 (MDT)

During the time that the late Ferdinand Marcos was president of the Philippines, being his friend or relative tend to confer significant business advantages. President Marcos used his power to benefit certain business over others, often to the detriment of foreign investors and most Filipinos. A golfing buddy's firm was awarded nearly every major government construction project. A domestic firm supplying cigarette filters won 90 percent of the local market when Marcos issued a decree slapping a 100 percent tax on a raw material used in filters by the company's domestic and international rivals. The company was owned by a relative of President Marcos. The domestic conglomerate buying 70 percent of the Philippine coconut crop was able, through government sanction, to effect a reduction of roughly 25 percent in its payments to the millions of coconut farmers in the country, farmers who are among the poorest of Filipinos. The president of the conglomerate was godfather to Marcos son and grandsons.

The flagrant favouritism displayed by the Marcos government in construction, cigarette filter, and coconut markets, among many others, helped lead to the presidents downfall? ----------- Our beloved dictator Maumoon Gayyoom is ranked ahead of Marcos, closest resembles are Hitler and Saddam Hussain.

someone who wish death to Dhajjal Maumoon
Philippines - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 05:43:35 (MDT)

Maumoon will stay in power for as long as he wishes simply because he is part of the ILLUMINATI, the group of social, economic, and political leaders (up front and/or behind the scenes) who form a ruling class throughout the world. Included in the membership [Committee of 300] are the old families of the European Black Nobility, the American Eastern Liberal Establishment (in Freemason hierarchy and the Order of Skull and Bone), the Illuminati, or as it is known by the Committee "MORIAH CONQUERING WIND," the Mumma Group, The National and World Council of Churches, the Circle of Initiates, the Nine Unknown Men, Lucis Trust, Jesuit Liberation Theologists, The Order of the Elders of Zion, the Nasi Princes, International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Bank of International Settlements (BIS), the United Nations (U.N.), the Central, British Quatuor Coronati, Italian P2 Masonry - especially those in the Vatican hierarchy - the Central Intelligence Agency, Tavistock Institute selected personnel, various members of leading foundations and insurance companies named in the lists that follow, the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank, the Milner Group-Round Table, Cini Foundation, German Marshall Fund, Ditchley Foundation, NATO, Club of Rome, Environmentalists, The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, One World Government Church, Socialist International, Black Order, Thule Society, Anenherbe- Rosicrucianists, The Great Superior Ones and literally HUNDREDS of other organizations.

Therefore MDP doesn't know what they are up against!

Silent Observer <classified>
Maldives - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 19:46:42 (MDT)

Now this would be more interesting if it was "true". Nevertheless it is very interesting reading material. Here is the link for our readers if they would like to spend an afternoon or two reading up on "pure fiction". After all its really entertaining. http://www.conspiracyarchive.com/. The paper titled The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and the New World Order By William Blase is nothing short of mind blowing - Ed.

This is the final leg for this administration. Increase the power of NSS and their wages. Soon the loyal officers will turn their back to Gayyoom. Congratulations to Ahmed Zahir for the guts to stand up and resign. The rest of the officers reported their contacts with "Overseas Maldivians" to Isthafa who was sidelined for taking it so lightly. I pray 5 times a day in Male and I do not meet anyone from a Christian Organization, but let me tell you I am opposed to this brutal regime and will soon see Gayyoom flee. Guys! Hang in there. Soon we will end this regime and bring justice to his cronies.

General <hukuru@hotmail.com>
Male, Maldives - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 16:50:26 (MDT)

One last question to Muju...what's it's like on the red carpet and the after party at huge film festivals? hehe

Ammade'
KL, Malaysia - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 01:32:20 (MDT)

What I don’t understand is why do they need to bring the Vote box for counting to male’?. We have a literacy rate of 98% or so and there are atoll offices, magistrates, island offices and even the police in most of islands. The counting can be done immediately after the voting at the voting booth perhaps in the presence of a jury (assembled from ordinary people) and with the presence of all other concerned parties. The process will be more transparent and increase people trust with the outcome favourable or unfavourable. But the problem is this may minimize the chances for vote rigging on the way to Male’.

Hassan Fulhu
Rajethere - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 01:18:13 (MDT)

Hey Muju, if you reading this, Congratulations on winning a high commendations for the cast and crew at the Warner Roadshow Studios 18th Queensland New Filmmakers Awards (22 April 2004). I know you guys were passed on for the first price (what a shame) in the Best Tertiary Drama (10 - 30 mins) category for your film The Garden (what's that now.... your second award this year? nice track record!!!). Even though you guys didn't win first place, second place is not so bad at such a high profile awards ceremony. Please pass my congratulations to Shannon as well who directed the film. I met both you and Shannon in Malaysia when you guys were on holiday there a couple of years back, we had some good times back then didn't we? Its a shame you had to resign from the editorial board of this site as well. I hope things are working out for you now that you are not involved with this site. Damn the government for their pressure on your family. Your time will come. Keep it real!!! I look forward to following your film career...

Ammade'
KL, Malaysia - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 00:52:27 (MDT)

In defence of Mr. Sodiq

I was Mr. Sadiq's staff from the beginning to the end. I for one know you are wrong. Mr. Sodiq did not take anything from Yameen or Ilyas instead they owe him and I have accounts to prove that. He was acquitted from the Criminal court (the judge was sacked for delivering justice) but Gayyoom despite advice from his Attorney General & Chief Justice appealed the case to his nominated High Court and turned down with no reason whatsoever. I have evidence of conversation between the President's senior staff and the Justices in the High Court where his case was heard after refusing to allow any legal assistance or his documents and computers which was held by the Ministry of Defence on the orders of Gayyoom. Sodiq was more organized and well connected than what you all know, if not he would have never been able to get out of the clutches of this govt. It was Yameen and his cronies who wanted the facts otherwise. I have seen his daughter who was poisoned by Gayyoom's agents and it is well documented with proof and submitted to HRC. Mariyam you are wrong.

Abdullah- Male' Maldives, Wednesday, April 28, 2004 10:44 PM

Mr. Sodiq has certainly become an interesting person. MR Ismail Sodiq if you are reading these messages about you please feel free to contact us at dhivehiobserver@gmail.com to make a statement for our readers stating your position, yours kindly - Ed.

Moya Naasiraa will make a good choice for president of the Maldives. She is more than competent. She spent so much time in "office" at Velaanaage and Theemuge.... such commitment and dedication. And lets not forget the invaluable grocery service she has provided for the residence of Male' and continues to do so. You don't see that with every candidate. VOTE NAASIRAA 2008, representing the Greens party.

Garoonu, Male' Maldives, April 28, 2004 at 02:27:05 (MDT)

HI GUYS! WHAT IS THIS? WHAT IS THE REAL AIM OF MDP? I DON'T KNOW WEATHER THEY WANT TO FIND A WAY TO INCREASE DRUG ADDICTIONS IN THIS COUNTRY OR REALLY THEY WANT FIND A SOLUTION FOR THE HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVITY IN MALDIVES. HAVING MEMBERS LIKE ZIYA ABBAS AND OTHERS WHO ARE SO FAMOUS IN THE MALDIVES FOR THEIR BEHAVIOUR SHOULD NOT BE IN SUCH A COUNCIL LIKE MDP IF THEY REALLY WANT TO GET SUPPORT FROM THE MALDIVIANS. HOPE THAT SAPPE WILL DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS.

meean <jeekoahmed@yahoo.com>
USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 01:08:09 (MDT)

Ziya is an ordinary member of MDP not a council member, I believe there is a difference. MDP rules say anybody can be a member. If it bothers you much, you should become a member too and bring it forward to the council. After all you will have just the same power as he does once you are a member. This has nothing to do with Sappe'. If you feel that there should be some changes made to the MDP rules of procedure you should as a member bring it to the council in an official capacity.- Ed.

"The Truth About Mr. Ismail Sodiq"

Most reader's of your site, such as myself was shocked and horrified to learn that the Gayyoom government practices state sponsored assassinations. That is the level Gayyoom government would go to remain in power. I myself think it is disgusting to take the life of another person regardless of their actions. It is inhumane and cruel.

But lets take this opportunity to look at Mr. Sodiq himself before we make him into a "poster child" of suffering or whatever. Mr. Sodiq was an accomplice of Ilyas Ibrahim during the early 90's. He perpetrated many underhanded deals with Ilyas to steal from the peoples money. After Ilyas subsequent arrest he switched camp's to Yameen's side. Along with Yameen he continued to steal some more. There are many business men in Maldives who had gone bankrupt because of the actions of Mr. Sodiq. While I don't know why he fell out of favour with Yameen and what it is that made him into public enemy no.1, I do know that he now lives a life of extreme luxury (stolen money from public coffers) in Bangkok with his wife (who is a lady from Bangkok).

While I do believe that he needs to be warned about any attempts on his life, we should not forget who he is, and what he has done to the people of this country.

Mariyam - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 19:40:34 (MDT)

In this country the solution to our problems is not addressing the root causes of the matter, but forming a committee, often to cover up the wrong doing or mistakes. Does anybody remember Sudhaa who ‘died’ in jail. It seems govt did form a committee even to investigate her murder. If they had really done a good job of understanding the causes of that matter such as existence of our very own Monsters and Torturers and had changed the system, would we have to see a one dark September in 2003. You would see such committees in almost all sectors where the members themselves have no idea actually what they are supposed to accomplish other than brag about gossip doing the rounds in the streets of Male’ and they get paid for that too. Now the newest committee is the Thinadhoo fund (the fund for haaluga jehunu and yatheemvi kudhin) advisory committee. I would not be surprised, if down the road after three to four years we see a newspaper headline that says - A clerk who are doing the administrative work have swallowed millions of rufiyaa from Thinadhoo Fund. The real swallowers will get a promotion after that. It would be an interesting movie that will unfold in the future. Keep watching.

Yatheem Kuja
Thinadhoo - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 18:26:37 (MDT)

"SPECIAL MESSAGE TO MR. ISMAIL SODIQ"
__________________________________

I was surprised to learn from very reliable sources that President Gayyoom still takes MDP and yourself less of a threat than some other Maldivians who are overseas. I recently learnt that Mr. Ismail Sodiq is his biggest threat. Even other senior government officials agree with President Gayyoom and they are taking all the precaution to ensure they keep him in a corner. He has escaped several assassination attempts while he was living in Bangkok and to my knowledge it was the only state financed overseas operation. As a former executive, I am in a position to know a lot about this govt. I would like to avail your website and contacts to warn Mr. Ismail Sodiq to remain safe, as he is still the number one wanted man by this government. A well planned operation is on its way.

Don Rahaa - Male', Maldives, Mon, 26 Apr 2004 09:04:56 +0500

I have read some comments on your site. You know, people just write anything without really making any effort to judge the two sides of an issue. They do this either because they don't have any work to do or sometimes they do for fun. Don't worry about such nuisance comments. I know there must be some people who must have the courage to criticize this autocratic government of Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom. This man has been in power for too long in Maldives. We need some changes whether one likes or not.

Waheed - Male', Maldives Sat, 24 Apr 2004 19:14:28 +0500

Sappe, is it possible to publish lectures from Fareedh which resulted his imprisonment so that we will be more informed about the the regimes definition of crimes, rights and wrongs. It could also increase our awareness on how far they are even from Islam or any laws that is universally acceptable to humanity. Make sure to publish it in this site and also e-mail to our fellow Maldivians who are subjected to read only propaganda from current regime and not informed opinions from all sides.

Dying intellect of Maldives
Maldives - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 18:24:49 (MDT)

It is a shame that Mr. Shafeeq's article "Gayyoom's fate" shows no more than the potency of a Gypsy House Wife's foresight. Being one of the MDP members at the fore front of the Reformist Campaign, it saddens me to convey to you Mr. Shafeeq, the questions that you have addressed here and your analysis falls short of much accuracy or insight.

First of all consider the Constitutional Powers of the Chief Executive, which ranges from appointing the Chief Justices, Parliamentary Speakers etc [chapter 3, article (42)a-i of the Constitution] to the laws granting immunity for the President from any Court regardless of the extent and the amplitude of the crime. The ghastly concentration of power granted to the Office of the Chief Executive means that he can conspire to disguise his existence and power wielding behind the sheepskin of reform. To this effect, I doubt that the "Democratic Reform" that Mr. Shafeeq speaks of is nothing more other than the beginning of a new saga, needless to say will function by ushering in a new corrupt executive of the preceding President's preference. If truth be told, it is not the President that Maldivians should be worried about in person, but the Office of the President and the density of power concentration in it- is also one of the the decisive factors that needs to be accounted for.

On closing I would like to quote from the article "but Maldivians will never forgive him and hence he will have to flee". This is a very poor representation of your view and any other Maldivians' as far as I am concerned. The campaign of the Reformists and Restoration of Public Trust that many Maldivians support today stems from the urgency to establish the Law of the land in a coherent fashion. We are no longer in the era of bidding farewell to corrupt office-holders such as Mohamed Amin or Ibrahim Nasir, who fled the country after
being ousted. Do you believe that Maldivians who advocate the Legislative and Judiciary Establishment Proper would allow Maumoon to flee instead of submitting him to an independent investigation and consequently face the full weight of Justice? Mr. Shafeeq, no one is above the law. Do not forget, even for a moment that you are working for amendment, not to foretell the loopholes where corruptors should make their exit.

To J.Leno and Susie Q <holywood4735_5@hotmail.com >
Glasgow, UK - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 03:10:27 (MDT)

A word to Dhagandey who has written on themaldivian.org

Dhagandey, you are saying that the NO law abiding Maldivian in Maldives suffers. I'm sure you people have not experienced any thing by the brutal regime of Maumoon, maybe because you are among one of those "Anbaree's", or "Brigadiers" or "Ilyas's" or "Shahid's" or whoever really "eating" all our money and executing the innocent people. Ok some are put in the prison for crimes, but does your law say he has to pay one one eye or one arm or one leg as a tax to come out, or must lie in a wooden box (coffin). Ok he was not law abiding that's why he went to prison, and because he was not law abiding he has to live as an invalid or he cant live at all, cool thats democracy, not suffering at all. Life imprisonment for just criticizing and revealing the truth, cool.. that's democracy for you guys.

How many people with no shelters (do you want statistics?), but how many Shahid's are making money out of government funds. That does not count as suffering! Be proud for that. Have large banners all over the country.

Ok, the people speaks truth have no love for Maldives. Why does your government want to humiliate the Maldivians and Maldives by participating in a world class futsal tournament. A sport which is completely new and which was recently introduced in Maldives. (Mind you that's not exactly soccer, be informed you broad-minded people!) Come on you guys will even walk naked on the roads if Maumoon calls to.

Ok I am narrow minded, any body who wants to say anything.

Thakurufaanu <maumooon@hotmail.com >
Maldives - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 02:47:16 (MDT)

Today we have paid staff of Maldivian government in Sri Lanka, Singapore and even in London to get into this website and to criticise what you are doing. After all they paid for4 what they are doing. Keep up your good work. Why can't any of these cronies tell us why our money was used by this crooks. Calling Sappe whatever, makes no sense instead make Gayoom and cronies looks nothing but crooks. If not Sappe we would have never known how these crooks enjoy life on our account. Gayoom is not elected to use our money like this. If he cannot answer these factual figures, he has no choice but to face this from all the Maldivians who are looking for an alternative.

kulhibala
Male, Maldives - Friday, April 25, 2004 at 11:34:01 (MDT)

Maldives, where you cannot even perform a simple medical task like checking someone's blood group. Is that why the option for blood group in the new ID card has now been dropped?

Hassanu
Paradise Island, Maldives Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 03:01:22 (MDT)

Any truth in this?

"Maldives Culture editors are mulling over a proposed bid to buy out their infamous WWW site. If a deal is agreed Dr. O'Shea will be forced to abandon his dream of spreading his gospel teachings to people of Maldives. It is highly unlikely Dr. O'Shea will give up his sacred mouthpiece which he also used as part of his PhD thesis. According to sources close to Dr. O'Shea it would be a kick in the butt of the Western Christian movements who have been supporting O'Shea's work. A high profile delegation from the Govt of Maldives is scheduled to meet O'Shea in Sydney very soon. Counsel from the administration will include Gayyoom, daughter, son-in-law (UK Barrister) and Adam Naeem (Presidential Aid and owner of AMDC Christian Movement)."

COMMUNIQU DE PRESSE
USA - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 19:58:23 (MDT)

Hey I am a Maldivian who have high hopes for our beloved country, I really support the way you people are trying to improve the human rights in our place and I really don't like the fact of discriminations going on in our country, we don't get equal facilities, we don't have the freedom of expressing our opinions....still I really cant understand the fact why you people are using people like Ziya Abbas and Ahmed Falah who are well known drug addicts in our
country, I have seen the life and the behaviour of these people from my own eye, I really think its a very bad idea to participate people like them in this.

rosy <hithaama@hotmail.com >
Sydney, Australia - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 18:52:37 (MDT)

Just read this article from The Straits Time about Arabisation. Is this something we, the Maldivians should beware of? Please read paragraph thee.
http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/commentary/story/0,4386,247253,00.html Thanks.

the101things <the101things@hotmail.com >
USA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 18:24:14 (MDT)

Request for Parliament members. Please set up a Law indicating criteria for setting prices of basic services. (Like they set up for staple food) Reference, www.ofgem.gov.uk www.ofwat.gov.uk. Hope with the new Constitution or even before, it could be achieved. Please set up personal websites (wannabe members and current members) so that we can easily contact you directly with our needs. Thank you.

Dhaleyka
Maldives - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 19:42:52 (MDT)

Are any of you suffering from a disease called insecurity, egotism, sadism, greed etc. Don’t feel distressed. There is still hope. Start mingling with ordinary folks in ordinary situation and places like cafes, markets, and reminding yourself the law is for everyone and there should be no bending to suit your needs. Try practicing respecting opinions of others who you think is below you (by age, money, status, education, power etc). Remind yourself, in the end like everyone else, you will be resting under the cold cold earth in a very small ‘box’ made of simple ply wood, without any riches or power. Try to leave a legacy that a country and its people can appreciate and remember you fondly. Sometimes the magnitude of some of your mistakes may shadow the good things you have done. Have courage to admit it (rather than passing the buck) and work to rectify it. Believe me, people will appreciate. All of you, stop this negative confrontations and lets work for the good of the society we live in. The Country will benefit a lot from that. There is so much you all can learn from one another.

Psychiatrist
Maldives - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 01:24:25 (MDT)

Maldives lose 23-3 against South Korea; so what's the big deal to make this your breaking news Sappe'? what you want tell us? is that because of Maumoon govt.? I dunno. but this headline humiliates us. is that what you want?

Someone
Maldives - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 05:04:33 (MDT)

That article is of interest to Maldivians. That's all. Does the harsh reality of the state of our affairs humiliate you? Did anybody say it was Gayyoom's fault? Not all articles published in our site is about Gayyoom's fault - Ed.

The greatest competitive advantage of current government is formulating fancy plans that take years and years to make (we have a planning ministry for that- great) and the recommendations in those plans will include further research and planning for another couple of years. Too bad it is to our disadvantage. In current environment even 6 months is 6 years. So imagine how much time we have lost and is losing fast in becoming a developed country. They may still be in 1979 Egypt pace-and may not know or comprehend what the world is like today - and what is the correct pace to catch up with the rest of the world.

The Greatest Planner
Maldives - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 21:13:16 (MDT)

We need a major overhaul of our education system, which is based on route learning and spoon-feeding rather than one that encourages creative thinking and understanding. Students are supposed to accept whatever the teacher says and asking questions to understand the root causes of the matter is discouraged in classes. Teachers may not have answers to all the questions but they should encourage healthy debate and help students to do their own research to find needed answers. We notice this drawback when we start higher education. We are disadvantaged by the skills we learned in our school system. We almost have to unlearn that way of learning.

Anyhow a participative approach will help to produce creative knowledge workers. I wish government- instead of crawling- would run towards facilitating and providing an env(sic) for creating and commercialising products based on use of technology. (Wonder whether Tech Min has such an agenda and if so what is taking them sooo long). Since we do not have a huge natural resource base, such an approach that uses our brain power and creating a Maldivian Silicon Valley, could be a major ticket in increasing jobs and making us a developed nations pretty quickly. It is also a major way we can overcome the challenges posed by immobility of labour. Anybody can work from their home/island and produce software (one of the fastest growing industry in the world) for multinational companies all over the world.

Disgruntled Student
Maldives - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 20:27:02 (MDT)

... It seems that new extension of Thajudheen School is again a grant aid by Japanese Government. Japan is one of the countries which has been always helping us mostly in terms of grant aids, in various areas especially food and education. How many tons of Staple food per year?, how many schools in the past? (i.e. KS, GS,...) but they always deliver a complete product if its a school, they even provide even the furniture. But I wonder this time what happened to the furniture of new extension of TS, why do the parents have to raise funds to buy furniture. Ok this time a new education minister is in charge, maybe he is going with the trend.. Can somebody check the newly built Ma. Light Corner.

Thakurufaanu <maumooon@hotmail.com>
Maldives - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 10:08:47 (MDT)

... and Dear Trade minister and all relevant ministers, when can we get all the basic services like water and electricity at an affordable price? If we pay for out drinking water this month, we have live in dark the next month... Rather you would say we made Rf 6,000,000.00 profit this year, why not just spend only half of that profit and make this affordable.

Hungaanu <hungaanu@hotmail.com>
Maldives - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 08:39:48 (MDT)

TELL ME. Dear Education Minister - What are you doing to increase quality of our academic results? Dear Health Minister - When are you going to provide reasonable and quality health services so that we do not have to waste our money - to foreign countries. Dear trade Minister - What are you doing to help us setup and run our businesses? Dear labour Minister - What are you doing to provide a framework that protects the basic rights of employer and employee? Dear transport Minister - when are you going to establish a nation wide transport mechanism that is cheap and affordable to general public? Dear Atoll Minister - What exactly are you doing to make our lives better? Dear Mr. President - what are you doing to decrease our widening income gap and increase average standard of living and make us the most developed country in Asia? (that is only a start) Dear members of the Parliament - You should have been asking those questions and more - When are you going to become a protector and defender of public rights rather than work to protect one individual from the rule of law. You all are accountable to us. You may choose not to answer these questions now. Nevertheless, there will come a day when you have to answer all those questions and much more. Remember that and start to do a responsible job.

"Citizens of Maldives"
Maldives - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 06:54:20 (MDT)

MDP's latest news bulletin has destroyed what little character they seem to have had in the eyes of a handful of youth. Can MDP explain why they are harbouring someone who has been issued a warrant to appear in court in the Maldives? MDP has destroyed their image, beyond repair, by first employing Ziya at their headquarters in London. And secondly by including a statement from him in their latest news bulletin. This latter act is a slap on the face of all peace loving, law abiding supporters of MDP who will never forgive the Council for this decision. Nobody wants to be associated with Ziya and it is extremely surprising why Anni and Sappe' do otherwise. Does MDP expect a certain degree of leniency from the Gayyoom government by employing a relative of the first lady in their UK office? Does MDP intend to promote Ziya as the symbol of suffering, oppression and torture? MDP has surely lost all its credibility. Disassociating with Ziya now is too late. They will never be able to undo the damage they have done to their own cause. Ziya is the beginning of the end of MDP.

Himarul Gaumu <abujahulu@hotmail.com> Male', Maldives Maldives - Monday, April 19, 2004 4:09 PM

Any comments on today's khuthubaa....Very interesting to see how this guy (Maumoon or what ever) twists the ayats of the Quran to woo the public....Why should we keep quit? ....tell me one reason ...when his brother in law engulfs in millions, he labels him a traitor on the public media, banish him for 6 months to Singapore and UK and then brings him back and again makes him a minister... TELL ME ONE REASON WHY WE SHOULD KEEP QUIT... Do you all remember this event....We should start distributing hard copies of Ilyas report all over Male...and bring him to justice .... cut his both hands off....if we are to believe the ayats of Quran....

dhebogeri Sarukaaru <dhebogeri@hotmail.com>
male, USA - Friday, April 16, 2004 at 12:50:27 (MDT)

What is MDP doing? If MDP wants to exhibit its citizenry that they an alternative government waiting they have to demonstrate that. There is no evidence of that in the last MDP Newsletter or on their website recently. To date the recent newsletter was the lousiest peace of work by MDP brought out to public domain. There was hardly anything new or fresh in the newsletter and there was no direction or opinion of MDP's order of business. I am not sure if MDP Well-wishers are interested in reading a statement from Ziya Abbas. When MDP announced his arrival (Newsletter 1-15 April) in full of high-spirited delight I thought MDP won treble! If MDP or any other political party wants to reach their destination in good time they have to demonstrate they are equal to or above Maumoon's government. And for Sappe, have you given up on your website and on your promises to the people? Haven't seen any updates for the last 6 days.

Disgruntled supporter 4 change
Maldives - Friday, April 16, 2004 at 07:34:32 (MDT)

Hey sauddey, Are you the sleeping beauty in the fairytales? Slept for the last 100 years. Maybe at the time you went to sleep, there were British people in the country and by the time you got up, again you were to go under "British" people like Sappe.

gabulhi <maumooon@hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, April 16, 2004 at 04:53:19 (MDT)

Looks like you are going to be appointed as the Information Minister of Anni's government to be. Poor Anni, having a minister like you, who lacks information and good communication skills.

gabulhi
USA - Friday, April 16, 2004 at 04:47:58 (MDT)

Talking about corruption? They spend our money on useless tasks? Of course you are right they have spent too much on a hypocrite like you, I guess.

gabulhi <maumooon@hotmail.com>
- Friday, April 16, 2004 at 04:44:53 (MDT)

Often great ideas provoke violent opposition from mediocre minds. However, in the MDP case, mediocre minds are being attacked by more mediocre and great minds alike....

unknown entity
classified - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 20:01:43 (MDT)

You are one of the people who had waken us from our sleep, a very long time had passed without knowing where we REALLY are. I really appreciate your work and hope you will supply us as much as information as possible. Because when the Time comes for us to stand, those information will definitely help us to reach our TARGET. ALLAH Tha'aalaa bless you and your work with your company

sauddey <shisaud@hotmail.com>
Male', Maldives Maldives - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 08:49:47 (MDT)

I have a really bad taste in my mouth after reading the Ziya's statement in MDP news bulletin. If he is such a goody-goody why didn'tt he prove to the courts his innocents, just like his compatriots are trying to achieve? Doesn't he know that he gets extraordinary privileges from the regime he denounces now? He can condemn his in-laws but who would believe a word he is saying. If it wasn't for Gayyoom, Ziya would have own up to his crimes. What is MDP trying to achieve harbouring a wanted crook? You guys are not doing any favour to the colly image of the party. You all know by now he is good for nothing and most of all he is not a trophy to cherish.

Hiyoedhey MDP member
Thinadhoo, Maldives - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 04:41:37 (MDT)

In NSS and other related govt. organizations lot of money is spent on people and resources to monitor activities of anyone or organization that dare to criticize governments mistakes, neglects, bad policies, etc. What a waste of public resources. Instead this money, people and resources could have been used to monitor and combat activities of drug trafficking, corruption from high to low, to enforce security and safety rules...etc.

Political arithmetic part III
Maldives - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 03:12:50 (MDT)

'An error does not become a mistake until you refuse to correct it.' . . . Without debate, without criticism, no administration and no country can succeed'

wise man
USA - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 01:19:36 (MDT)

Sappe, So much for your tolerance and freedom of expressions. You made a calculated move when you was most of the articles and comments coming on to your guest book were against you. Now you are keeping all those out of bounds to your guest book. Well, the GABULHI MALDIVIANS as you called us one day are not nuts. Any one who had been a regular visitor to your site will understand what you are doing now... Censored or not, we know most of the articles u get are against you

thedhubas
USA - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 10:54:51 (MDT)

COME ON GUYS. IT IS TOO LATE TO TAKE AN ACTION AGAINST WHAT HAS BEEN HAPPENING. UNEQUAL DISTRIBUTIONS OF SERVICES THROUGH OUT MALDIVES IS ACTUALLY A REAL BIG CONCERN. I COME FROM AN ISLAND WHERE DEVELOPMENT IS TOTALLY IGNORED. WHY SHOULD SOME SUFFER WHILE OTHERS ARE LAUGHING. WE ALL COME FROM THE SAME STATE. IT HAS TO BE FAIR. IT IS REALLY FRUSTRATING TO SEE SUCH A BIG DIFFERENCES IN SUCH A SMALL COUNTRY LIKE MALDIVES.

meean <jeekoahmed@yahoo.com>
male, maldives - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 00:57:20 (MDT)

The other side of the coin: Many regions in the Maldives including Male used to be self sufficient by exporting locally made products on their own an importing needed items with that money. By 1979 the foundation of modern development are in place such as tourism, English medium education, higher secondary education, airports. Then came the concentration of all-new value creating activities only to Male. For instance rather than renewing the island based industry(s) with new management and business techniques that will benefit the masses it was left to die a natural death leaving most of the island population job less and unable to earn an income. On the education and health front we here lot of progress but the fact is giving a decent education to our children is impossible unless- transferred to Male�. Anyway it took almost two decades even to establish a college which was the natural step after 1979. For health we all depend on Trivendrum in India. However we have to be grateful that we all are literate. But what is the use of an education if that does not help you feed your family. What job you will be able to get only by being just literate. With the lose of labour intensive manufacturing type economic base of earlier eras the islanders have no choice but to transfer to Male�. Perhaps this could be the time in the Maldivian history which has highest migrant population in Male�. What does this tell us. In our neighbouring India, it is often said that even without Mahatma Gandhi they would have gained independence. However he gets credit for advocating and following a non-violent political movement which could be a lesson to all of us. We cant even compare the present regime with such a legend. Anyhow historians could answer the questions what could have we achieved by now if we had a different visionary, incorruptible, transparent leadership.

SAD
Maldives - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 02:12:30 (MDT)

(http://www.wright.edu/~tran.dung/suhartowealth .htm).�family of President Suharto took a bite of countless businesses here, from billboards to Boeings�. They'd get 10% of some project without putting up any money, then sit back and collect the dividends. http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/etstol.htm. Like Mr. Suharto's five other children, Indonesia's elite circle of power, patronage and influence, including high-ranking civilian and military officials used connections to the government to develop business interests during Mr. Suharto's rule. Last year Time magazine conservatively estimated Suharto's wealth at US$15 billion. He should pay this back as it was stolen from the Indonesian people. (http://home.flash.net/~comvoice/18cSuharto.html). The daily newspapers in Jakarta used to be a joke. Nothing critical of Suharto or the military could be discussed. Editors who allowed some critical comments to pass - for example some mention of Suharto family members landing government contracts without bidding on them -- found themselves in hot water with the military. Suharto Ignores Criticism, Names Cronies to Cabinet. But though Suharto is gone and some of his fascist rules temporarily ignored, the same institutions remain in place. Suharto's joke of a parliament and handpicked electoral college remain the leading legal forums. Smashing the institutions of the New Order will involve a struggle. The army brass revels in the old system which gave them not only power but riches as well..

An interesting case for us to analyse at this point
Indonesia - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 19:43:31 (MDT)

In the recent past, we are seeing an increasing number of people expressing their concern about the political 'stability' of Maldives. This website happens to be one example of that. The task of reforming a corrupt nation isn't an easy one. There is no easy answer when almost everyone has had a hand, either directly or indirectly in perpetrating crimes against the people. We need a lot courage and vision to bring about peaceful change in Maldives, even though it is a tiny nation. The peace and harmony of our land should be a primary concern. Although I disagree with the current regime's assertions that freedom and democracy has to be 'moulded' according to locality, we should heed the needs and awareness level of our people. To bring about change, we must all accept that change is required. No doubt that the status-quo is unacceptable. What I would dearly like to see from the likes of the Maldivian Democratic Party is their Manifesto - their vision. As an organised political opposition, I want to know what difference they'll make to our lives. We need to know what the alternatives are on offer. Sure, I agree with the campaign of informing the people of the country about the injustices and corrupt activities of the present regime, but let's not lose sight of the big picture here and let's get on with presenting what an MDP led future would hold for us. Thanking you for all your hard work.

HandiBe <handibe@hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 15:10:02 (MDT)

There has been lot of debate on who is responsible for Enamaa disaster. Haven�t we seen people eager to take credit when we do something GOOD using our ability, the limited resources available and with the help of people close to us? The highest credit in such a situation ultimately goes to a person who has no connection to that, and to whom we have paid handsomely (unlike the rest of govt employees)- with perks fit for a king to do a job- but the same rule does not apply when the situation is unpleasant. This does not make any logical sense. The whole thing reminds us of Dhivehi saying kandhi kamanaage masthelulun that we study in our secondary schools. Even in our speeches, it goes something like this. �I thank God for this opportunity � I thank (fill in the blanks) for this opportunity to- Logic is a stranger to us in one situation and our best friend in another situation. Interesting.

Aristotle
USA - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 04:52:20 (MDT)

How much profit does STELCO, MWSC, DHIRAAGU make every year? Are these purely or partly profit maximizing companies. Dhiraagu is a pure profit maximiser. STELCO & MWSC looks like that as well even though they are 100% owned by the public. Since it is our money, shouldn't we know how it is spend and how much profit these companies make? Is it fair to keep this information confidential from us? In other countries- which have democratic governments that care and responsive to public concerns,- the objective of keeping Utilities as a government monopoly is to keep basic services within the reach of the general public. Even if it is privatized, the prices are highly regulated by authorities to ensure this. In our case what is the objective?

Political arithmetic Part II
USA - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 00:20:54 (MDT)

the Ilyas article is worth submitting to international or regional journalistic awards

Hukuru
USA - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 00:19:06 (MDT)

One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.

Plato
Utopia - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 00:16:56 (MDT)

This is the type of reporting you must issue. This is the best investigative reporting we have ever seen in the Maldives.

raiymas
Maldives - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 22:28:04 (MDT)

Correct me if this is wrong or too low from the real figure. The cost of maintaining our president, is equal to- the palaces, yachts, in addition to 70 million or more budget to maintain immediate family + another nearly 70 million or more for Office. Do we get adequate value out of that approximately 140 million or more we spent. Sappey it would be interesting to know the most recent figures on this and also how much is currently spend to maintain an island on average. Does anybody know how much money is spent on salaries of parliamentarians and to maintain that office? Again the interesting question is do we get adequate value for the money we spent on the law makers or is it just easy money for them for doing nothing? How much is the salary of Ministers compared to government employees? Why it is kept confidential? If it is something that they deserve and also will make people happy -sure government would publicize it 24 hrs. The amount spent is fine if it is fair compared to our economic conditions and if we get an adequate value out of it. Thanks

Political arithmetic
USA - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 22:02:55 (MDT)

Present government act with a Boda, Kiburuveri attitude - like they only know what is right and wrong, good and bad- maybe for them- and all the rest lack some kulhandhu in their brain to understand even what is good for them. Maybe all Maldivians should have been born without a brain since we are restricted to use it to make a difference in our lives even within the law and Islam. Now you know why they are not interested to listen openly to different and varying opinions. Act like they own the country- not the people. (Listen carefully to their speeches, specially the tone of it, to get the feel of it). Kihineba such people ge nimun annany, -dhe dhuniyenves? We also have to take part of the blame for creating and allowing an environment that makes people like Pharaoh of Moses era.

Observer
Egypt - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 19:06:07 (MDT)

The article is great. Finally we know how these guys took our money and had 4 wives and travelled around the world on our money. We have never seen something like this in our lives. Accurate and factual with such minute details. Great Job. If Gayyoom can rebut this let him come out and say "SORRY" and resign.

White Clouds
Maldives - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 06:45:21 (MDT)

Sappe, You don't have to be an expert on Tourism for anything to make some common sense. You are doing a great job. Unless one is willing to explore all the angles you will never get to the truth. In an open forum, it is nice to see your tolerance on messages against you. This proves what you are trying to achieve. In any society there are "followers" who fear that without Gayyoom they are nothing. These people like all others must be a given an opportunity to express their minds. Keep up the good work. We admire you for your sacrifices.

saabas
Maldives - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 06:40:20 (MDT)

Congrats...this article on Ilyas is excellent!! This is what you guys should be doing...Eagerly awaiting such a brief on YAMEEN.

Dhon Ahumadh <someone@island.com.mv>
Addu, - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 00:23:13 (MDT)

Religion should not be monopolized by anyone, least of all government of countries these days. They do not have the moral authority simply because they themselves konme dhimayakah beliyas has violated their oaths to be fair and just which is a major tenants of Islam. Not only that. The dhaulathuge/rayithunge khazaanaa is a public trust where we employee a person every five years to distribute equally and responsibly to those in need. The question is when most of the population in country live without basic necessities or barely surviving is it justified to build palaces? -no I’m not talking about presidential palace. I’m talking about the Mini Palaces built in atolls by various ministries for dignitaries from male or for doctors, or for atoll chief or under any such pretext while the rest of the population doesn’t even have the means of earning an income. Of course these Beyfulhun cannot bear to live in the same condition as the people living in that island even for a day. The sad thing is most of these Mini Palaces which is also supposed to show ‘the tharaqee of the island’ are empty in greater period of the year. Some of these Mini Palaces are supposed to earn an income for the atoll but wonder how much and what direct effect that has to alleviate the poverty and lack of basic services in any island. Rather than spending on such ‘empty buildings’ it would be better to concentrate on increasing the service quality given to people, be it health, education, utilities, security ….or any- directly. And think of the income the island population directly could have earned if govt rent directly from them. These are genuine concerns.

Mini Palaces
Atolls, Maldives - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 08:41:53 (MDT)

Who you know is more important than what you know in the country. If you are loyal or a relative no matter how bad you are doing your job, you will never be fired.

How to prosper in a dictatorship
Maldives - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 08:39:50 (MDT)

thee vaa varakee

koba
USA - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 01:07:54 (MDT)

It is time the Maldivians understand that we need people with a vision to prosperity and development to be the leaders, instead of those Azharu imbeciles. We don't need religious leaders in the government. Their rightful place is in the mosques.

socrates <socrates@freethinking>
USA - Friday, April 09, 2004 at 19:35:11 (MDT)

Sappe, you are not expert in tourism, so at least realise there are things you better nit comment on. When you went destroying our tourism you could have cared more. Don't think you know everything, in that way you are better off. Let us handle tourism while you go on sabotaging every thing we have. I don't care if you post this or not. but remember kmme meehakah ves ingey kanthak neygey kantha hunnaaney.

Tourguide - USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 22:34:16 (MDT)

Proud of our drug dealers - Is Maumoon going completely potty?... Why shouldn't he be? These drug traffickers are people Maumoon recruited when he came to power. Maumoon praised and canoodled with his heroes for concealing the reality to the Egyptian authorities. When Maumoon was close to getting trapped in the illegal deals overseas his attention was totally diverted to Maldives where he have a free ride in whatever he chose to do. If someone is playing a blame game we can say the distressing number of opium addicts we find around in Male is because of Maumoon and his crooked government. And it is in public domain that Maumoon harboured drug peddlers in his family for years.

LeMaldivien - Maldives - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 19:25:31 (MDT)

Sad soul you are right. These people are just out to get power, whatever the cost it may be. If they get power they can stay up and enjoy. They can make tourism cheap for the backpacker from Europe and live on the few bugs that the country earn, while our kids die. This is clearly seen in what they are doing and what is seen in their past. In one article Sappe even went on to say if the tourism policy is changed it will be an affordable thing to have a holiday in Maldives!!! For whom?????? Are we lacking customers???? What does it mean??? It looks like Sappe with education from the civilised world thinks that we all Maldivians are fooled. He thinks anyone who doesn't buy his ideas are either "Maumoon Supporters" or people who are in a deep sleep, not standing up to their national duties!!!!!! How much is he aware of his national duties is anyone's guess today..... I really wish the government of Maldives did not block this site, so that he would have had a taste of the hate that is boiling in the minds of ordinary Maldivians today. Not against the the present day government of Maldives, but towards Sappe and his gang. Even people who had no love lost for Maumoon and his regime are today supporting him and urging the government to save us from the damages done by these rogues. Now Sappe is not allowing people to post messages on this. Imagine how much of freedom of expression he believes in. Godhoo gudhoo govan ekani igenee!!! Not worth a kaheruvaiy

thruth - Maldives - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 13:28:55 (MDT)

I'm convinced of one thing and one thing ONLY. There is no future in Maldives for our kids regardless of who is in power. It's inevitable that the social harmony of our island nation can only get worse in the future. Our economy and tourism will decline significantly in the future as a direct result of MDP's "awareness" campaigns. And even if MDP comes to power they will not be able to undo the economic and social damage that has been done to the nation. It's a sad reality that we have to accept. We will be worse off than Iraq, Haiti, Bosnia and Rwanda. I think it's time for us to consider the future of our children and migrate elsewhere.

Sad Soul
USA - Monday, April 05, 2004 at 19:26:36 (MDT)

Hey Sappe'. I commend you for your untiring efforts. there is a lot more to be done to make the ordinary Maldivians aware of the level of corruption in Gayyoom's government. take the issues and address them in laymen's language so that people will ultimately understand the real monster Maumoon is. .. we love our nation, and we are never going to let the Maumoon rannamaari rape our future.. go ahead and keep the good work.....

socrates <socrates@freethinking.com>
New York, USA - Saturday, April 03, 2004 at 20:23:01 (MST)

Although I don't know u personally...I feel as if I owe u something. maybe I do...cause' you woke up the Maldivians from the fantasy dream we were living in! thank you Sappe for everything. Bless you, you're beautiful wife and your first-born. Respect!

lolita <kamananajeeb@hotmail.com>
Sri Lanka - Saturday, April 03, 2004 at 03:50:59 (MST)

hey, why is it that there are no new messages posted here? Is Sappe getting all negative comments and is he not posting any of them? this message is to test that. and yeah ****** Sappe. A shame to Maldivians, please make yourself scarce from the face of the earth. Is something wrong??

USA - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 13:50:13 (MST)

Maumoon' govt was performing 'dhebogeri show' after the sep 2003 incident. i am sure i am not the only one who feel so outraged.
I say....we start 'target ******* his team members...this is the only way we can stop them...
Need comments on this idea....

dhebogeri sarukaaru
male' - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 11:22:14 (MST)

I always thought Maldives was slow in implementing development because we always "Hinga kun'funi" while the rest of the world "ran their companies". Now the difference of running a company and walking a company is apparent to me. MDP is the future, and hooray for party system. May we get the best that life has to offer us.

Am I ignorant? <For pointing out the obvious?>
Male', Maldives - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 10:41:36 (MST)

Dear Haveeru (if that is your real name) Leni Riefenstahl's film "The triumph of the Will" made for Hitler's Nazi Germany was one of the very first known propaganda/art pieces ever to be made making way for more to follow. Do you think Muju is an admirer of Leni Riefenstahl or just another guy trying to do the right thing by his country and people?

Aafathis (Not my real name)
Male', Maldives - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 08:56:18 (MST)

Propaganda or not, as a simple man just trying to live a decent normal life, I pick MDP. Their manifesto and such propaganda pieces as "The History of" convinces me to choose MDP, regardless of the negative talk that I have been hearing about them. All politicians are evil, I pick the lessor of the two evils. You have my support MDP.

Ahmed Ali
Male', Maldives - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 08:43:07 (MST)

Finally somebody gets it about "History of". It is a designed propaganda piece. It is written in simple English only to get an idea of extreme prosperity across to the common person. A good politically motivated story. BRAVO!!!!

The Lady in Black
Male', Maldives - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 03:33:45 (MST)

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