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Open Forum - May 2004

Views expressed in this forum are that of the people who choose to contribute to this forum and does not necessarily reflect that of Dhivehi Observer. Please send us your comments by email or by filling in the Submission Form. Some comments maybe edited for clarity. Please use decent language.

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

It is wishful thinking that Gayyoom will leave on his own accord. There is no way, besides he doesn't deserve to live as an elder statesman. He has got too much blood on his hands. We need to drag him on the streets, like the Romanian leaders and teach the rest of his cronies a lesson, so they won't bother us again.

We are not going to stop this now. We have invested too much time and efforts.

Sappe please keep this going. We are almost there.

Usay
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 21:46:09 (MDT)

Wow!! How does one get access to that kinda detailed plans straight from the PO? Lets hope you are right Mr. Unknown Insider.

Aanu
Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 20:58:11 (MDT)

Dear Beybe and all other readers of DO - here is an exclusive to the biggest state secret at the moment,

Gayyoom is getting ready to vacate the office of the president some time soon. It is believed he will do so even before the next election. He has gotten the services of an uncorrupted friend (this friend [a man of great integrity unlike other friends of his early days] "left their friendship" earlier at the the beginning of Gayyoom's rule in the 70's not to become corrupt) who he can trust to help him out of the sticky situation he is in without bloodshed.

This friend advices him his time is up, but before he vacates office, there are certain things Gayyoom needs to fix (including installing FULL democratic institutions), if Gayyoom doesn't want the same fate as AMIN (Gayyoom is getting ready leave as a hero). So this IS the beginning of the end of Gayyoom and how he intends to write the very final epilogue (A short addition or concluding section at the end of a literary work, often dealing with the future of its characters) to his biography "The Man for all Islands". This method is the only way Gayyoom can get some protection from the international community when the time comes and possibly not get prosecuted or get a pardon/leniency from any future leadership and its people.

Also they are getting ready to overhaul the cabinet and rid themselves of unsavoury characters like Jameel (a man of great evil and most senior advisor, has way more than USD500 million in City Bank USA - receives bank statements on a 22 carat gold edged paper - policy of the said bank for anyone with money above USD500m) and many other corrupt officials (lets not go into too much detail - must not jeopardise anything good that could come out of this).

So as you can see, that is why there are more than 30 elected reform minded people in the newly elected crop for the upper house of the Parliament. Does any of this remind you how the Malaysian dictator Mahathir vacated office with a few thousand of handpicked audience to attend the parliament to cheer him and to beg him to not to leave while an emotional Mahathir insisted that his time is up? Mahathir's autocratic and sometimes brutal means (he has also done a lot of good to the country as well which should be rightfully recognised and same goes for Gayyoom) were never questioned after his resignation because of how it was done and televised to the entire world and he now lives as a respected elder among the people as the father of Modern Malaysia. Until the plan can be implemented he is going to be playing the hard dictator for sometime.

Who you ask this friend is? No names at this point in time. He was elected to the upper house of the parliament recently as well to ensure that all possible reforms needed will be gotten without removing the clause "that the state religion is to be Islam" (they still believe that most reformists, mainly MDP is interested in building a church in front of every mosque - As poof they claim the money Qasim received [1.6M] from overseas before the election, which was spent on financing his campaign, was indirectly from Christian missionary groups - seriously guys, isn't this the biggest joke eh?). I myself welcome this move if it means the end of Gayyoom's reign of terror.

All this doesn't mean the work of reformist organisations should cease at all. This is the direct result of the very successful campaign of the reform movement. Continue doing what you are doing. The day is very close.

This information is only shared in the hope of avoiding any sort of bloodshed as it is officially recognised that tempers of certain people of the community is getting very hot.

Name withheld by request
Male', Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 20:11:00 (MDT)

"Male’ is the largest constituency in Maldives and is famous for being the most competitive seat" as it was reported in DO and that Ibra and X-ray Athif who the 2 seats of Male'. What happened to the other 86% who were eligible to vote? This is a very poor turn over. It was also reported that only 14% of the people eligible to vote in Male' voted. What does this mean? Do we have the person that most of the Male' residents want? I don't think so. So Ibra and X-ray Athif has to do a lot to win over the hearts and minds of the people if they want to last long.

Also what happened to Anbaree's seat in Baa Atoll. Did Gayyoom personally tell his cabinet not to run for parliamentary seats so that others could contest. There are a lot of things that needs an answer for what is happening in everyday life in Male'.

Beybe
Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 19:01:05 (MDT)

Sappe. We cannot thank you enough for all your work. We know Papa is reading your website. Today he has ordered to increase the guards at the palace and his office. We are screening everyone once again. We are checking his office and his palace for any bugging device. Singaporean engineers are expected to visit these places within the next few weeks to secure them. We recently found two unknown devices inside the air-con systems. They are being evaluated.

Many of us are supporters of MLD and now we have been asked by MLD officers to support your work and to keep you posted. We will let you know of any changes.

Though we are in uniform, we don't support this regime. Our wages are frozen, benefits are reduced and allowances are gone. We are forced to spy against our fellow citizens. We know what they want to hear, and soon you will hear from us as well.

Palace guards
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 17:54:48 (MDT)

Gayyoom's government is continuing with their own agenda with no regard to the laws and regulations of the country. The latest evidence to this claim is the way the Tourism Ministry decided who to award the picnic islands. Rozary Hussain did not put the highest bid for the Anbaaraa island in F Atoll. In fact there were two other bidders who were willing to pay the government more than twice of what Hussain had proposed. But Hussain has a better weapon at his disposal. He is the brother in law of Yameen - the most corrupt person in the Maldivian government. Sobir gave Anbaaraa to Hussain so that Yameen will not make a fuss when Sun Travel & Tours is awarded the island of Faandhoo in Dh Atoll. There were two bidders for Faandhoo each offering more than three times of what Sun Travels offered as payment to government. The third island was also NOT leased for the highest bidder. Infact it was awarded to Horizon Pvt Limited who offered to pay the least amount of money for lease for the island (i.e. Kunaaveshi, F Atoll). The rules for the selection of bidders changes every time Gayyoom and his regime wants to award it to their family, in-laws or friends. We must not forget how they went about in their selection the last time when Gayyoom wanted to award Giraavaru to Raoof, a resort island. According to sources at the Tourism Ministry, Raoof has not paid a single cent to the government as rent over the last many years. But Sobir has not taken any action against Raoof. Well How can he? Yameen and Gayyoom are the chief architects of all this. Sobir is just a puppet. A very good one actually.

Tourism Analyst
Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 17:45:32 (MDT)

Dr. Munawwaru was offered this job at HR Commission, but he refused. So they found Mujuthaba who they believe is an opposition leader. Now they are asking us to criticise Mujuthaba for his failure. If he pushes too far, we can label him a Christian and take the job away from him. This is Gayyoom's politics.

Haveeru
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 12:16:41 (MDT)

I think I agree with MLD, we should put fear in Gayyoom, so he won't step out of his Palace. We have so many armed people around him, who might be willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of all the 280,000 people crying for change.

Unless we do something more than reading DO, we cannot see the changes we are dreaming. I think, like MLD we should slowly recruit reform minded people into these forces, and also offer both financial and material incentives to join all the opposition groups.

We got to do something. Sing those songs, drop leaflets both in Male' and in the islands and call for a massive uprising.

While we have access to these cronies, we must bug them everywhere through all possible means and drop their pants and let the people know the facts.

We should increase the pressure where they cannot trust anyone, and run for their lives. Lets all do this everyday, until we see the back of Gayyoom.

I think we should take some extreme views on some of these issues. If Gayyoom refuses to reduce the utility services, we should bring them down, so neither he nor his cronies can use them.

Let us learn from the Iraqis. Let us all suffer for the good of all in the future.

Goyya
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 12:07:31 (MDT)

I have been observing Sinaan Ali's (Haveeru journalist) work for sometime now. He seems to be the only writer in Haveeru that seems to write anything of substance in that useless newspaper. This article by him on the failings of the Human Rights Commission is commendable. My hats off to you, Sinaan! My advice to Sinaan is that these articles could always be better than they are now and you are working in the right direction.

The only question I have is, this is the only guy in Haveeru who seems to dare to criticise the way things are done in the regime. I wonder if this is a high ranking regime official writing under a pseudonym as part of the government propaganda to appear they are doing something about the allegations against the regime.

Good journalism
Male', Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 10:48:59 (MDT)

Dear Beybe

You may be right in saying that Abu Guraib is worse than Maafushi Jail. But let make clear this about the United States and its policies

1. In Abu Guraib it was Americans been terrorising the Iraqis. But in Maldives, in Maafushi Jail, its Maldivians torturing the Maldivians

2. American Justice Standards are far better than that of Maldivians, there by limiting the possibility of such events in future. I hope you saw Rumsfeld being questioned in length about the prisoner abuse scandal. But I didn't President Gayyoom or his State Defence Minister Anbaree being questioned in the Parliament. What Maldivian Parliament got was a Censored version of the Sathar Commission Report which now have become very controversial. Apparently Gayyoom censored it on the grounds of NATIONAL SECURITY. But Parliamentarians are the very members who are expected to uphold the NATIONAL SECURITY

Therefore, Dear Beybe, Please think about your country twice before writing articles about us.

Anthony Zeeni
Koofa, Iraq - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 08:52:05 (MDT)

If Gayyoom could lie to his people for 25 years, why can't he lie to Amnesty International. The difference, when his people complains, he will not listen, but when AI submit their reports, at least the rest of the world will listen.

I have been through every detention centre in the Maldives and never charged for any crime. The places are not Hiltons. It is terrible. The punishments are severe, painful and drives you insane.

Now that they have new spokesperson and special "information unit" doesn't make Maldives, a place for freedom loving people.

It is hell for its own people, while our visitors see the beauty of our islands from their own eyes.

Holy
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 06:02:44 (MDT)

I am sure you will recall how this was run earlier. Gayyoom will ask his brother Hameed to call for a "get together" and throw some issues to see how the reform minded members react.

Next thing you will find NSS at their doorsteps looking for them. They will turn every piece of paper and arrest them for driving a bicycle without lights 24 years ago.

Next you will need bi-elections, and that is going to take another 180 days.

After few months, there will be another "picnic" where members will play a "cricket match" to see who throws the ball the fastest. Whoever they are, will be invited to Aarah and sent to Colombo for medical treatment for a hamstring, all paid by Theemuge.

The next time they have a meeting, the members will be sick and will not turn up. Or else Gayyoom will watch their itinerary and call Hameed to arrange the next meeting.

Finally Gayyoom will ask his members to call the issues into committees. The reform minded members wouldn't be there to say anything.

These committees will go to sleep with the issues until Gayyoom wakes them up, hopefully after 2006 world cup when Gayyoom has nothing interesting to watch on TV.

Thereafter, you will read his views on "Dheenuge Magu" in various, religious terms. He will label all the reform minded people Christians and this time Jews as well.

On January 1st 2020 the amendments will be published and a ceremony would be held and as usual it is going to be live on TVM.

Soon you would see Gayyoom brought in an emergency vehicle with tubes attached to every organ. He will sign the documents and hand over his reign to his grand children.

Folks wake up. Stop this call for democracy. We have too many of you, who are wasting time, asking the elected leaders to listen to your aspirations.

Unfortunately, they think you are nuts and tell the rest of the folks, you are all crooks, anti Islam financed by missionaries.

Stop dreaming! This is not the way to make changes in this country. Your mindsets must be adjusted to the reality on the ground.

This is a real mad house. Here no one is going to listen to you, because people are taught from their day one, to follow their leaders whether they are right or wrong.

You all have very good intentions, but you can't even have a glimpse of any change. The way you are doing it, is just a waste of time and money.

When you expose his cronies, they have no choice but to run and support Gayyoom in order to remain in the click.

Like Chairman Mao or Saadiq, creep under every carpet, and reach the masses and listen to their concerns and address them.

The folks in the islands know too well, that Gayyoom is a crook, Hameed is gay and Yameen is a crack. They also know Ilyas is a womanizer and Jameel is a drunkard. Listen to what they have to say. They are not asking for too much. Just simple basic stuff.

Print your policies like the MLD's DP and spread the paper not (he said, you said) words. They will keep them under their "kan neyo" and read them everyday. Put things in writing and not on websites. The people have no access to them and for many it is still a fiction.

Create songs (anti Gayyoom songs) record them and let the smallest child learn them by heart (like the ads) and read like the daily "kurusi." Let the people listen to them, like Gayyoom's prayers asking Almighty to give him wisdom to cheat his people.

Print T-shirts and make labels in toys, mugs and imported clothes. (Like the new MLD trousers and women's clothes) Create a brand and work on them. Like Saadiq, keep your agents in every office, department or ministry. Continue this in the islands and ask the folks in higher offices to move them into powerful positions.

Saadiq once told his members, "Let's turn these carpets upside down". Let me call Editors of DO, MDP, the supporters and readers to do the right thing and let us all change the carpets once for all.

MLD Advisor
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 23:35:28 (MDT)

Why is everyone here so obsessed about religion. Whether its Christianity, Islam or any other, we should respect all religions and those who follow it. The people who are Muslims are humans, like wise the Christians or any other person who follows any other religion fits in to the same category. I don't see what the heck this is all about. Grow up everyone.

So lets be mature adults and stop "abusing religions" that exist in this world today; which will take nobody nowhere. The past has shown us that people in this world has fought many wars and wasted great many lives in the name of religions. Lets fight for humanity instead.

Samuel Mohammed
Arkansas, United States - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 23:29:53 (MDT)

Dhivehi Raaje Top Ten Gai

I wonder if any of you have come across this link here. It gives a link of all the countries in the world, stated according to the Percent of GDP spent for military purposes. And we are proud that we are among the top ten.

"http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/rankorder/2034rank.html" - CIA fact book - Military expenditures - percent of GDP

If you elect me as your next dictator, I will make sure that we reach the number one slot. So, please vote for me and not for Maumoon. He couldn't make it to the top, judge for yourself.

The Dictator Elect
Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 22:55:15 (MDT)

Now that we have the full list of Special Majlis members, I wonder if there is anyone who could let us know who these people actually are.

Who is reform minded?
Who is pro-no change?
Who is MDP, MLD, etc?

Looking forward to a reply soon.

Polar Bear
Greenland, Arctic Circle - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 21:26:37 (MDT)

The election is over. What did we achieve? Nothing! Since the President has the power to decide when and how to use the services of these elected/selected people, there is no credibility. Like the years in the past it is Gayyoom who writes our constitution, whether we like it or not. He is going to make some few changes here and there, but we won't be able to see them until 2020. God bless you guys.

Yaseen
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 17:05:01 (MDT)

The people who are talking about religion should think heard. Religion today is being used and abused as the opium to drug the Maldives and its youth by present leaders. Religion is a personal thing. To have a successful system in today’s world we have to separate the religion from the state (i.e. the governing process). Interests of all parties can be more secure in such a system. I don't think anyone will need what they called an Islamic state like previous Afghanistan and present middle Eastern countries. At present do anybody see any ‘Islamic’ state functioning according to its citizens or subjects interest. Almost all of them has dictators including Maldives. It will be better for everyone to have a secular state where individuals are given the freedom to choose. In Maldives and other parts we have seen that religion used by all these 'Saik's and to be Saiks' to gain personal gains. No matter whether it is Saiku Zakairiyya or Usthaakun fummaali Gayyoom. So it is time not to talk about any religion lets talk about the systems that are working better today.

Sure present regime through themaldivian.org and other sources have scared some guys saying that MDP/MCP/DO or what abbreviation you can make is trying to convert Maldives to Christianity. Sure some guys who are questioning MDP about this issue knows what they are up to. It is not religion which is at stake. A whole country and its people who have suffered under what so called a religious scholar. We don’t want another religious scholar to rule and ruin the Maldives. So better be careful what you say and do.

Even in the West there is no perfect system but Maldivians today have to introduce a functioning system where Island folks and Male' aristocracy are treated the same. A system where the governors should be responsible and accountable for their actions. A system where people get to choose among the many talents of the Maldives. A system where the elected fails to deliver can be peacefully and orderly changed. Again by the people not the few. We don’t want hand picking here. We don’t want some one to name the future government and its people without giving a say to everybody. All Maldivians.

We need a multiparty democracy and independent state institutions. A society where the very fundamentals of power ‘the constitution’ is approved by the people, not hand picked few. All Maldivians must be given a chance to have a say in referendum to approve or disapprove the constitution. The Gayyoom government must not use its inhuman NSS force to intimidate public during this referendum. Obviously with enough ballot papers where those who attend can cast vote with out waiting for three hours to get them printed. Of course a society where no one can use or abuse any religion to gain power.

Empower People <people@pluto.org>
Pluto, Universe - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 13:57:16 (MDT)

Unlike Gayyoom and MDP, I am very impressed with the MLD's policies about Islam. Thanks to Katheeb for a copy. They have put this in the forefront of their policies and that is the way you are going to win the hearts and minds of the people. By doing this, Saadiq has closed the last door for Gayyoom. Gayyoom lost his last trump card played against MDP.

If you stir up the religious feelings of the people, you cannot win any election or the hearts and minds of the people. That is why I support Saadiq and his MLD. They have a vision, a policy and an agenda to give us all, what we want including Islam.

Saadiq, I know you can bring out the translation of Qur'an in 365 days instead of 25 years. I believe in you and support you. We all love you.

MDP will need another 10 years to clean up their image of "supporting Christianity". (This is how Gayyoom labelled them)

Mudhimu
Hithadoo, Seenu Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 12:55:06 (MDT)

I think the policy of MLD is very clear. We don't compromise on Islam. We do not support any group who is opposed to Islam.

We intend to create an Islamic Council to advice the MLD government on Islamic affairs. We will adhere to all principals and tenants of Islam and questions which are arbitrary of nature (only very minor issues) will need the Islamic council to debate them publicly and to put forward their views to the people.

We will not allow Christian churches nor Buddhist temples in the Maldives. However, we will consider to provide some sort religious tolerance among the expatriate communities. Proselytizing would remain prohibited and enforced. Islam will be taught in all school and will remain compulsory up to grade 12 and beyond. Religious programs and conferences will be regularly held in Male and in the islands. I hope the leadership will clear this to the readers soon.

Nazim
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 12:03:39 (MDT)

I would like to thank Anni for the very prompt response. It is very commendable. But I cannot help but notice, that you still refuse (I don't know if its intentional) to even use the word Islam nor even refer to anything related to religion. So I feel this is a cop-out answer.

Why do you refuse to address the issue by even mentioning the word Islam? Is your intentions so terrible that you are unwilling to address the issue head on? Why cannot you refer directly to the case of Islam and give a direct answer?

So again I ask, WHAT IS MDP's POLICY ON ISLAM? I don't think an answer that beats around the bush is sufficient. A direct answer is the only way to go about it.

Also what is this I hear about a deal made with foreign governments and MDP that Addu is going to be given to a foreign power if they help MDP into power? Can you also clarify this?

I hope my humble request will not be go without an answer.

Addu Hussainu
Addu, Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 10:39:17 (MDT)

I feel that the MDP’s stand on policies and issues are very clear. In many instances MDP has stated that party polices and principles are those published in its Newsletter and its Website.

I understand that MDP circulated a draft manifesto with its Newsletter 9. (April 1 – 15) I as an individual feel that the MDP policies and principles are very clear in its draft Manifesto and I hope that the party will adopt the draft. This I also understand can only happen in any meaningful way when the party is able to function in the Maldives.

Mohamed Nasheed (Anni)

Mohamed Nasheed (Anni)
Speaking from UK - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 09:58:55 (MDT)

I am a very big supporter of MDP and the reform movement. I think this is what we need exactly. I even distributed the flyer to the public that DO made. But now the issue has been raised with a ferocity, I would like to know the truth too about MDP's stand on Islam, after all you are attempting to convince a nation of Muslims.

Gaumu dheke loabivaa
Male', Malaysia - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 09:29:56 (MDT)

I would like address to who ever said Abu Ghuraib is better than Maafushi Jail in Maldives. That is the biggest joke that I have ever heard. Well, what is going in that prison cannot be equated to Maafushi prison or Dhoonidhoo prison.

Did the person who wrote that was in a jail for long. Try to write sensible and no-nonsense stories. Facts is the most important thing. Maldivian jails are not what what you imagine in your wildest dream. It's much better than you see in this region or say for example in East Asia. Talk to people who had spent some time in jail for example in Malaysia, I am pretty sure there are a few people who can shed some light, who spent some time in Malaysian jail for violating immigration regulations there.

Hope next time you will make some sense in your articles!

Beybe
Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 09:28:24 (MDT)

Now that I think about it, how come MDP never defended Islam? Is the rumours about Christian missionary money and all that stuff true?

DODODO
Hithadhoo, - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 09:17:47 (MDT)

I agree with Addu Hussainu. How soon can MDP clear this point? Also how soon can MLD clear this point? And how soon can MNC clear this point?

Aanu
Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 09:11:05 (MDT)

I know a lot of people will agree with me when I say its democracy we want. That means a civil society right? We the people right? So that means we the people can make demands of our public servants as far as I am concerned. This question is not for DO, because I know DO's agenda is reform. This question goes to MDP.

WHAT IS MDP's POSITION ON ISLAM? Because word is mixed up at the moment. What is more worrying is that MDP never defended Islam either. They have made no statements or anything like that. So I demand to know, what MDP stands on the issue.

Addu Hussainu
Addu, Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 08:58:47 (MDT)

The report: "An Islamic Constitution for Maldives?" Why do you have this on your web site? Are you criticizing Islam? If so from whom are you trying to get support from? Majority Maldiviansa are still dedicated to their religion. I think a lot of Maldivians will come to support MDP if MDP would stop this anti-Islamic propaganda. The fact that MDP cannot genuinely express where they stand at religious issues is a very big issue in cases of many people. Many people want change but they don’t want to change their religion with it. I think it is time MDP came up clear with a statement stating how important it is for them to hold the Islamic values in the country.

I know this is not an article written by MDP but the fact that it is in Dhivehi Observer states that it is more anti-Islamic than pro-Islamic.

I have to say that this is the only reason I have for not being a full supporter of MDP right now.

Regards,

DDDD <theemuge@hotmail>
Male', K MALDIVES - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 07:32:37 (MDT)

Ibra, can you post your email add so that we can get in touch with you regarding our suggestions for constitutional amendments since you have been elected for the special Majlis.

Citizen
Here, There - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 02:22:03 (MDT)

No Blood group required in ID cards any longer
Aafathis (English News)
26/5/2004

From May onwards, Identity cards will no longer require blood groups to be put on them. In an interview to Aafathis Daily, the Director General of National Registration, Mariyam Waheedha confirmed this change in proceedings.

The Department had prompted the decision, she said, due to the difficulties many people had to incur in running blood tests.

‘The change will be announced shortly” she said.

Reportedly many in the atolls experience difficulties in finding out their blood groups as some of the Health Centres even refuse to run these tests.

Adding blood groups to Identity cards was implemented during the month of May last year.

-------------

I cannot understand why the blood group should be removed from your ID cards. Isn't it the best way to find out what blood group a person belongs to in case of an emergency without doing unnecessary tests?

Why don't they facilitate the Islanders to do the one off initial blood test and not make it sound like its a burden for them. Last I heard the government should be a facilitator, not abandon things just because they are hard. Those Island health centres that supposedly refuse to do the tests will do the test if they are told to. Its a simple task really.

Gayyoom and his administration keeps getting stupider and stupider by the day.

Ahu
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 01:52:17 (MDT)

I really don't understand what the f**k Gayyoom is thinking. Is it just me or does anybody else find it highly hilarious when Gayyoom controlled Haveeru has the audacity to criticise other country's tight control on media and makes comments about how messed up that is. (http://www.haveeru.com.mv/?view=2&id=3368). Read the article, the jokes always on Gayyoom it seems these days. They should be embarrassed to publish this sort of articles.

In case they remove the article, its about how the Vietnamese government keeps press freedom under tight control, and how the public are being told that its free only for show while the government continues to lie about it or something to that effect.

How much more hypocritical does this guy want to be? Is he out to set a world record for being the biggest hypocrite there ever lived?

Gayyoom, get you own s**t together before you start criticising other people. Make Maldivian press free.

Hammit'te
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 01:12:47 (MDT)

Now that Ibrahim Ismail (IBRA) has been elected WE demand him to state clearly his agenda. If he doesn't raise the important issues WE will drag him down and hold him accountable to the people. This is a responsibility, NOT a walk in the park. We are watching you.

Feedback
NY, USA - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 21:08:05 (MDT)

I am glad Saadiq was able to push Ministry of Trade and Industries to clarify this to the readers. This shows his influence to get his people to work and bring out the truth. It is far too easy to accuse someone based on personal assumptions.

I think Saadiq is a uniter not a divider and he has the ability to bring the best of all Maldivians and to pick and choose who are willing to work with him within the current administration.

Saadiq, we support your new membership drive among the people from Thuraakunu to Gan island. If "one man one vote" you need the people behind you, and we assure you of our support. A few disgruntled Gayyoom cronies cannot stop our desire to give you an opportunity to serve the people of Maldives.

You are our saviour, we need you and love you. You only can make our dreams come true.

Naeem
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 19:51:49 (MDT)

Amnesty lists South Asia abuses

- Repression of peaceful political opposition continues
- Reports of torture and ill treatment of prisoners
- Fundamental flaws in the criminal justice system were partially addressed
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/3749857.stm

the101things <the101things@hotmail.com>
London, UK - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 18:20:18 (MDT)

Sappe, I want to help the readers and correct some misconception about Saadiq and Seven Eleven.

We received a letter from a prospective share holder of Seven Eleven (not Saadiq) to register a company in the Maldives. As per our requirement they had to offer five different names. The names were:-

SEVEN SEAS
SEVEN LAKES
SEVEN OCEANS
SEVEN ELEVEN
SEVEN RIVERS

It was the registrar of this Ministry who picked up Seven Eleven and approved the name. The prospective share holders had no prior knowledge of the approval and for record Saadiq was not a signatory of this application.

Saadiq or other share holders were never asked officially or unofficially about any involvement of Seven Eleven elsewhere, because we had no Seven Eleven registered by anyone in or out of the Maldives.

To protect the rights of any foreign company, they are required, like in all other countries, to register themselves in the Maldives. There are hundreds of foreign companies registered in our office and such names are not allowed in the Maldives.

In our files, we have a letter which shows the company Seven Eleven Pte. Ltd. requesting to allow them to keep their shops open 24/7 and to allow them to name all their shops Seven Eleven. They also submitted a letter from the Corporate owners in Texas, USA stating that it was their regulations to keep their overseas vendors open 24/7.

However our ministry's regulations prohibits such extension after 11 pm and to name any two shops with the same name. It was the registrar who suggested to name the shops Seven Eleven 1,2,3,4 and so on, which the share holders reluctantly accepted.

Ismail Sodiq had only 15% share of the company.

I have the blessings of the highest authority in this office to send this clarification to you.

Staff at Ministry of Trade & Industries
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 10:42:01 (MDT)

I would like to congratulate MDP and Ibra for the win of Male' seat for the upper house of the parliament.

Gayyoom, we are slowly taking our Nation back from you and there is nothing you can do about it. Only time will tell.

Shaufa
Male', Maldives - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 10:20:29 (MDT)

I agree with the reader that we need to focus on issues, rather than individuals. I think we have had enough clarifications of Saadiq now. Many will support him and still some will disagree with him. That is to be expected. No one should expect to win 100% votes in a democracy.

Despite some fuss about Saadiq and how he became rich, I think I agree with his policies.

His determination to take STO out of retail business and allow Maldivians to import food, oil and other items is remarkable. But most of all, I like the way how he wanted to ensure how the importers are going to keep sufficient stocks to ensure we don't run out of important items.

Current import license for staple food is a hoax. We have to pay commissions to Usman at Ministry of Trade and many who get these licenses are the same people who applies under various names.

This will save 6-8 million dollars of hard currency which MMA is obliged to give away to STO.

The import of Jet fuel (JET A1) must be a separate company and should join with a foreign airline or oil producer to keep the prices competitive. STO and its assets must be used to improve the conditions in the islands and preferably with overseas investments in the long run.

The tea estates in Colombo is a good deal, provided it is not tied up with any politicians both in Male or Colombo. Their investments in Colombo in the oil refinery business is good. They can do similar investments in the region preferably in Malaysia and in Singapore. These are things, they must be involved and focused, not in retail business.

I also like the way how Saadiq wants to bring the customs tariffs lower and to ensure every body gets a fair deal.

For two decades Lily Store imports goods from certain importers and get two invoices. This is known to everyone in Male. Former strong man Isthafa defended them and used NSS as Lily store's debt collectors.

Similarly, Universal for 2 decades maintained offices in Singapore and Colombo only to make fake invoices. We all know this, so there is no way how small businesses like mines going to compete with Lily store or Universal.

I think Saadiq has the experience the talent and the knowledge of small businesses in Maldives and his policies to help to create fair competition among the business community is important and vital for a successful democracy.

Small businesses are for Saadiq, because we know he cares.

Businessman
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 09:45:49 (MDT)

Dear sappy, We wanted to congratulate you for the good job you are doing for our country. I am confident that you will write or try to criticize or country's economic development issues more then personal ones, If one we list them out.

Abdul Gayoom <gayoom1@hotmail.com>
Male', Maldives - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 02:41:02 (MDT)

This is what I gathered about Saadiq. When Saadiq left Maldives Government (Singapore Trade Centre) he had not much money but took tons of experience with him (quote from Ali Manik). According to this source, Manik told Gayyoom in 1988 " he is the cleverest bastard I have ever seen, he knows a lot and you must watch him all the time, otherwise he will strike you back very hard". He was active in Singapore and Bangkok and carried the latest intelligence devices ( I presume that's what Manik was referring), so according to my sources, he still possess very highly classified stuff with him (including a 3 hour conversation with Gayyoom and Gen. Adam Zahir at International Plaza. During his time in Singapore, he was assigned by former Vice President Koli Ali Manik and Defense & Trade Minister Ilyas to sell Maldives exports and to charter ships to carry them. He served his 10 years bond with MGTC and left for Thailand (he was given an honourable discharge) where he started a business with local Chinese partners. According to his close associates who worked for him and still in MGTC, Saadiq had a Jewish friend called Gustave Levy, who owns several western banks, helped Saadiq to establish himself in the tuna world. His business with Maldives including 7Eleven was negligible and the imports of tuna to Thailand from Maldives was less than 2 % of his business.

According to this source and Tuna importers in Thailand, Saadiq made money in western pacific in the early 90's when he had an exclusive fishing contract with the governments of PNG, Solomon Islands, Kiribati and Nauru. It is reported he made over 20 million and part of the money is still being paid to him by US, Korean, Japanese, Taiwanese and Russian fishing companies.

Hameed
Singapore, Singapore - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 01:28:17 (MDT)

Money is not everything but it is a lot. Even under democratic rules, money talks in politics. I for one haven't met Saadiq, but after reading his DP and some of his economical and social policies, I think he is the right man for the job.

He might not have as much as Qasim, but I am sure his contributions to many Maldivians are appreciated. I never got a penny from him, but I am ready to Vote for him.

Suja
Perth, Australia - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 00:56:28 (MDT)

I have no idea about 7Eleven, but what I know is people's choice is the largest super market in Korea and for sure STO doesn't have any rights on the name. From what I knew from Usman Shakir is that foreign companies must register their names with the Trade Ministry and unless they are registered the local people have the right to use any such name. He told me that calling 7Eleven was never a question, but it was a request from the minister as some local business people (including Buruma Qasim) attributed the name 7 (Yameen) and Eleven (Ismail Saadiq). He told me that even Gayyoom was worried why Saadiq was in Yameen's house until very late and use to drive Yameen's car when Saadiq visits Male.

I am sure someone from MLD or ex 7/11 will clarify this to you.

Before Gayyoom ask for any advice from the people, let him do what is absolutely essential. We don't need another 19 years for him to come out with a set of new rules.

We just want him to go. We have had enough of him. Just leave us alone. We won't sink without him.

Banana Republic
Calgary, Canada - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 22:42:50 (MDT)

Sappe, you are doing a fabulous job. Many of us whole heartedly agree with what you are doing. Please try to get together and bring MDP/MLD and the rest of the leaders and work together.

The people who are opposed to your work is a small minority, while they claim that you all are in the minority. Like Saadiq's contacts, MDP and others must move into the system and work within. I am sure your work overseas are bearing fruits. Keep up the pressure, We can now see the cracks. Just hang in there. We are getting closer.

Longey
Male, Maldives - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 20:01:00 (MDT)

I don't find any difference between the Saddam and Gayyoom. The Iraqi people who went under the torture chambers are happy that Saddam ended up in a rabbit hole. I hope Gayyoom too will end up the same way and we are able to bring him to justice. To humiliate him and drag him around in hand cuffs when all the people who clapped their hands last 25 years will clap again, this time with some happiness in their face.

I think we need the support of United States and other western countries to bring this murderer to justice. There is no better place to rally than Washington. Who will notice if we walk peacefully in Trivendrum???

Whoever was behind this has my support. I wish I could go there and tell the rest of the world what it is like in Dhoonidhoo or Maafushi.

Kondey
Male, Maldives - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 19:52:46 (MDT)

Mr. Accountant, we are waiting for that web site. I do agree with Saadiqeen that we still question how Saadiq got that rich. We certainly do question his connections with the corrupt people in the present government. We do question his part in the different financial irregularities that he saw happen, supported happen and covered up while happening.

Saadiq having money doesn't stop him from becoming our next president.......but it doesn't make him more eligible either. I am not Saadiq bashing here, but I am genuinely not willing to accept just at the face value that Saadiq is the all good as the pictures that you paint of him.

I am not ready to believe that his intentions are as pure as is being suggested. I am not willing to risk my country's future so easily. Trust must be earned...not bought with money. Saadiq had not earned my trust...and not of many others.

Energizer
Male', Maldives - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 19:16:06 (MDT)

Dear Editor,

Publishing certain pictures on your website does not necessary compel you to endorse the views represented by them. Moreover, as I do empathise with what can only be generically termed 'democratic movement' in the Maldives - especially in connection with open discourse [including press freedom, amongst other things], I will not here castigate your decision to publish these photos. I am referring to the ones depicting a protest in America drawing certain parallels between Saddam Hussain and Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom. More problematic was the implicit parallel between Iraq and the Maldives.

Now, I am not one to deny that severe political changes need to be implemented in the Maldives. These photographs seemed to suggest American intervention as a solution ["Mr President - Bush - we support you ... Gayyoom you're next" - or something to this effect on one of the placards]. I can honestly say, even more so in light of recent developments in Iraq, that I would wholeheartedly protest such 'imperialist' programmes directed towards the Maldives. I will not elaborate on why I see such projects to be ill-founded, to my mind it is almost embarrassing trying to justify something that seems patently clear.

Furthermore, let me here point out that it is rather naive and juvenile to embrace the American interventionist tendencies that are becoming increasingly and worryingly frequent. I would extend a similar reaction to someone unquestioningly putting faith in George Bush Jr. to question Saddam Hussain or our own Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom.

Sincerely,
Dylan
Dylan <goodnessbeyonddylan@hotmail.com>
Male', Maldives - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 15:39:55 (MDT)

I have a question to the former accountant of Saadiq, to kindly clarify something for me if you will. I am sure many Maldivians often wonder about this. Did Saadiq actually get the rights to 7Eleven from the parent company or was he operating under that name illegally like Gayyoom claimed he did?

I am not jumping to conclusions, because it has become really hard for me and my friends to believe anything Gayyoom says anymore. So it would be nice to clarify this one last thing.

Shaufa
Male', Maldives - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 22:57:20 (MDT)

I think there is a disease in the Maldives to accuse anyone who has money to be labelled as a crook. Unfortunately our leaders consider people's money as their own, so we cannot blame them for having 10 storey houses.

Gayyoom is allowed (by himself) to donate, give away or provide loans to anyone of his choice.

I think when someone cheats STO (like the recent cheques) you should not blame only the person, but instead hold the people who authorized such dealings responsible.

If anyone got any money from STO, then Yameen and Maniku must be responsible . Ordinary people cannot take money out of STO's bank accounts, someone must authorize, a director must sign a contract and there must be some sort of protection to ensure "people's money" are protected. Otherwise it is a give away.

A former STO's director told me that to get money out of STO without a written contract is like winning a lottery ticket.

For four decades we have been issuing lotteries from Bodu Store, MGBS to STO.

When will this stop?

Koli
KL, Malaysia - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 17:51:06 (MDT)

I worked for MLD and it's account department for a long time and still have contact with some senior members and I would like to clear a reader's concern about my former boss.

For your information, Ismail Saadiq was Managing Director of 9 different companies (9000 employees) and Chairman of the Board of Directors of 5 other companies from 1986 to 1996.

According to Lloyds of London, one of the most reputable companies in the world (not Miadhu, Aafathis or Haveeru), the sales of the group amounted to $2,000,000,000.00 (TWO BILLION DOLLARS) (not Gayyoom's Rufiyaa).

Maldive Government's budget is approximately (only) $275m. Please check DO's website.

Saadiq doesn't owe anything to STO nor to anyone in the Maldives. However, STO owes, Saadiq and some of his companies over US$1,400,000.00. (A separate lawsuit is pending in London and attorneys are ready to arrest STO's vessels/property anywhere in the world upon instruction from Saadiq)

The Chairman, Managing Director and Senior STO officials still owes Saadiq money.

Saadiq paid and imported large quantities of goods to build Kaamineege and Milano, by his own vessels without any freight charges or customs duty for the recipients. Some STO directors and senior staff both in Male and in other locations still drives vehicles paid by Saadiq.

Saadiq paid income tax and property tax in Thailand from 1984 -2004 in the tune of seven figures. That shows how Saadiq earned his income legally.

Saadiq currently pays income tax in the United States and according to IRS figures (which are public records in the United States) (not like Gayyoom's books - e.g. Air Maldives) paid $145,973.11 for 2003.The tax returns also shows he paid over $129,000.00 to charitable organizations.

During 2003, his foundation also paid 8 million baht to Maldivians who are either studying, doing business or attending medical needs.

Among Saadiq's companies who conducted business with STO including the once famous 7Eleven (Saadiq had only a mere 15% share) and the other Thai companies who did business with STO had only 0-20% shares of
Saadiq.

The upcoming MLD's website will show from Saadiq's humble income of Rf.360 a month from Velaanaage (1976) and his assets until today.

I wonder whether you heard about Yameen having a bath in mineral water supplied by 7Eleven Saadiq?

Oh Boy! I am only trying to put the record straight.

Accountant
London, UK - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 16:46:28 (MDT)

How did Saadiq get rich? legally or illegally? Maldivians money? STO money? 2 wrongs don't make a right....or does it? Saadiq is as much a scum as is Gayyoom. I know. prove me wrong.

Saadiqeen
Bangkok, Thailand - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 03:54:48 (MDT)

Every time somebody calls for reform, Gayyoom and his cronies hurry up to label that person as common criminal or worse. This forum itself disapproves that claim by Gayyoom, because it is open and this is the people talking. So are we all criminals now? Or is Gayyoom full of sh*t?

Faaigu
Male', Maldives - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 00:26:34 (MDT)

Hey Sappe, what you are doing can be a form of Incitement to topple an elected government. That is in the face of the government. The AG might send the case to the Courts and hand down a pretty good sentence on you in absentia. With credible proof they might do this. This will be enough for a warrant to be issued to Interpol to get you to face justice in Maldives. Can this happen!

This might be a wild dream but can be a close reality. If this happens it will be like a dejavu to me!

Hope that this will not happen!

Beybe
Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 23:53:13 (MDT)

I would like to comment on the article on " Heroin on the white sandy beach of Villingili" well this surely states that the two dogs which are in Hulhule Airport is not a way of stopping the smuggling of drugs. NCB should take the initiative to push the government to get more drug sniffing dogs to guard the Sea port when cargo ships from suspicious ports comes to Male' port.

Without all the ports being secured this problem will arise. I have also got reliable information that some cargo ships are intercepted by Gulf Craft launches when it gets into territorial waters of Maldives and take the contraband while the ship is moving making it difficult on RADAR in NSS coast guard to know what is happening.

There is now only one Harbour Patrol vessel or Sea King helicopters. I think the Harbour patrol section of the NSS should get more advanced speed boats for operations as the Hong Kong Police uses to stop smuggling between HK and China.

What ever is to be done, the government of today or tomorrow has to shoulder a big financial burden. To be frank as Maldives is 98% sea. The Government should concentrate more on patrolling for smuggling of contraband and be efficient in search and rescue operations. It's not about getting some odd number of Sri Lankan, Indian or Taiwanese fishing vessels who are illegally fishing in Maldives.

I have also known that some Russian fishing Vessels fired on NSS Coast Guard some time back when they were being pursued. NSS coast guard also engaged with them resulting the capture of the vessel. These news should be put forward for the public.

I want freedom of press to be a main point discussion in the Parliament so that people can express their feelings on government funded projects or other development projects funded by foreign parties. Things like these has to have a saying of the whole of public and not by a party or from a department.

Beybe
Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 23:44:41 (MDT)

My heart jumped out of my mouth and tears rolled my cheek after reading the agony of this young lady. I have the same question. How many more families must go through this before we see a change.

Calling Gayyoom a monster is also too good. How can he do this to his people?

Lojey
Perth, Australia - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 23:02:23 (MDT)

I just finished reading the whole Open Forum including the past archives. One thing I notice was that we might have a Maldivian record on our hands. I do not believe there could be anybody out here who might have received so many heart felt thanks and appreciation in such a short period of time than Sappe'.

So I would like to thank Sappe' and the DO team for the wonderful work you are doing letting the peoples voice been heard.

May god bless you all.

Shaafiu
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 21:37:01 (MDT)

The terror cabinet is really scary! It's all a f**king family business eh? Thank you Mr Pundit for that.

AM
Singapore - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 21:27:04 (MDT)

Anyone who believes we can change this regime through a ballot box must be dreaming. The only way to take this administration out, is some sort of violence or bloodshed. History taught these lessons, we have always had to use violence to change kings, queens and dictators.

If anyone of you think Maumoon will see a dream tonight and change his policies tomorrow is a fool. You can expose all his cabinet and himself and that would only harden his will on the people.

You guys better wake up and look for other alternatives. Ask the western countries to hold the money hidden in Swiss Bank Accounts and stop the flow of the government money to purchase arms which are only used against our people.

Like one of the readers mentioned couple of days ago, we have to stop Maumoon and his cronies travelling abroad. Flood the western governments with these reports of atrocities and brutalities of this regime.

Let Sappe draft letters to foreign leaders and their email addresses and ask all the readers to send the same letter to MPs & Congressman from themselves, their families and let them hear our daily crying for change, freedom and democracy.

Only than can we dream of a change without much bloodshed.

"Ask what you can do for your country not what Sappe can do for your country"

Voter
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 19:48:26 (MDT)

TERROR CABINET
(scheduled to take oath of office on September 1, 2004)

In the light of the recent pressure to bring about more democratic reforms and make the executive of the government more accountable, Mr Gayyoom has decided to reshuffle his cabinet. But his ulterior motives are more sinister than ever. He has vowed never to bow to the pressure of his countrymen or to that of the international world. He is now determined more than ever to make his extended family members and close friends as Cabinet Ministers thus ensuring there is no challenge to his autocratic authoritarian rule within the government. The following cabinet profile is a snap shot of what he is thinking right now!

Positions for Gayyoom:
President – Mr Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom
Minister of Defence and National Security – Mr Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom
Minister of Finance and Inland Revenue – Mr Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom
Sunni Imam of Maldives (at Minister Rank) - Mr Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom
Chief Cub Scout (at Minister Rank) - Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom

Gayyoom’s Family:
Minister of Trade, Industries & Employment – Mr Abdullah Yameen
Minister of Science, Communication & Technology – Mr Midhath Hilmy
Speaker of Parliament – Mr Abdullah Hameed
Minister of Atolls Administration - Mr Abdullah Hameed

Abdullah Hameed’s children:
Minister of Planning and Development – Mr Hamdhoon Hameed
Minister at President’s Office – Dr Hala Hameed
Minister of Fisheries & Agriculture - Dr. Fathin Hameed
Minister of Arts - Mr Yasin Hameed
Attorney General – Mr Shaheen Hameed

Nasreena (Gayyoom's wife) and her Family:
Chief Girl Guide (at Minister Rank) – Nasreena Ibrahim
Minister of Transport – Mr Ilyas Ibrahim
Minister of Civil Aviation – Mr Ilyas Ibrahim
Minister of Information - Mr Abbas Ibrahim
Minister of Sports – Mr Samarey Ibrahim Maniku

The late Sheik Mohamed Jameel’s extended family:
Minister of Foreign Affairs - Mr Fathuhullah Jameel
Minister of Housing and Development – Mr Mauroof Jameel
Minister of Tourism – Mr Abdullah Shahid Jameel
Minister of Women’s Affairs – Mrs Zayiha Zareer – (Mrs Fathimath Jameel’s daughter)
Ministry of Education - Dr. Mahmoodh Shaugee Jameel (he takes up a new surname!)

Close friends & allies:
Chief Justice - Sheikh Mohamed Rasheed
Minister of Home Affairs – Major General Adam Zahir
Minister of Youth and Employment – Dr Zahir Hussain
Minister of Islamic Affairs - Sheikh Ibrahim Zakariyya Moosa
Minister of Health – Mr Ahmed Abdullah
Minister of Social Welfare – Mr Ismail Shafeeu

State Ministers:
Minister of Sate for Defence – Mr Anbaree Abdul Sattar
Minister of State for Communication– Dr Ahmed Shaheed

Diplomatic Attaches (At Minister Rank):
Ambassador to United Nations – Dr Mohamed Latheef
Ambassador to South Asia – Ms Rashida Yousuf

Diplomatic Attaches (At Deputy Minister Rank):
Ambassador to UK – Mr Adam Hassan
Ambassador to EU - Mrs Soba Abbas (Nasreena’s neice)

Other appointments:
Commissioner of Police – Lt General Ibrahim Latheef
Commissioner for Human Rights – Mr Ahmed Mujthaba
Commissioner for Youth Recreation – Mr Isthafa Ibrahim Maniku
Commissioner for Consumer Rights – Mr Ahmed Saeed (Cyprea)
Commissioner for Maldives Fisherman – Mr Koli Mohamed Maniku
Commissioner for Equal Opportunities for Resorts - Mr Giraavaru Raoof

Siyaasee Pundit
Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 17:48:43 (MDT)

For two decades NSS confiscated whatever drugs they got their hands on. They were sent to Dhoonidhoo to be destroyed in front of Ministry of Defence officials. For two decades these drugs and liquor confiscated at the airport and during drug raids were returned by the Dhoonidhoo commander Warrant Officer Sulaiman to drug dealers and agents of the commissioner of drug Czar, who happens to be W/O Sulaiman's best friend.

It was once again Saadiq who reported this to Maumoon and Anbaree and got rid of these drugs getting back to the people. Saadiq was arrested and tortured in Dhoonidhoo by Isthafa for reporting this to Maumoon.

We cannot stop this drug "wabaa" until we get rid of Maumoon. If the people wants to rid the country of drugs, lets get rid of Maumoon first.

Lets us all support MLD and bring the necessary changes to the country. They have proven that they have a vision, a written plan, we all have endorsed.

Villingili
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 13:43:07 (MDT)

I was told by the US consulate here in UK today that it is not a requirement for a US citizens to revoke their citizenship of another country to become a US citizen.

I was also told that many Jews in US are citizens of Israel and they pay their taxes to Israel and avoid double taxation in the US.

My point here is Saadiq still could retain his Maldivian citizenship while being a US citizen. So long as he use his American passport he will not be harmed or stopped and will be treated as an American citizen.

Maldivian constitution is a rubber stamp document. It took Gayyoom 19 years to figure it out and just after 5 years he wants to make changes as if it was created in his kitchen.

We will now see some cosmetic changes, with a foot note stating the president has the right to over ride it.

The current constitution will not stop anyone to become the President of Maldives. Gayyoom will use the constitution just to white wash the west to show how free his people are, when his Attorney General talks of freedom of speech in stages starting from December 31, 2005 to eternity.

We don't have that patience, and we are going to bring this regime down, peacefully if possible if not "the hard way".

They have had their time, and now it is time for them to go, "one way or the other"!

Meena
Manchester, UK - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 13:25:26 (MDT)

I would like to thank Ahmed for clarifying that point on Saadiq. Thank you. As for Sappe, I know for a fact he is a resident of UK because of his Scottish ex-wife. The question I want to ask all DO readers is how does that make Saadiq eligible for Maldives leadership if he is citizen of another nation? I naturally assumed that he won't be a citizen of USA because of his ambitions to be a Maldive President.

Hussain
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 11:39:12 (MDT)

We don't need another 25 years to get our right for freedom of speech. I just can't understand why Gayyoom feels he has the God given right to be the head of state until his death. The cronies themselves feel Gayyoom is indispensable. The same Abdullah Hameed wept in public and begged ex President Nasir to stay back despite his bloodless departure. Either Hameed is suffering from a chronic disease or have a mental disorder. I need help from the readers to correct me if I am wrong.

Badi
Perth, Australia - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 11:22:18 (MDT)

I want to confirm to you Hussain that Saadiq and family are citizens of United States and Gayyoom has no way to extradite them or even to attempt to kill them. I think Gayyoom knows too well the consequences of even dreaming to harm an American citizen.

Saadiq has already informed the concerned authorities, the Justice Department, State department, FBI and USCIS thus making Gayyoom and his cronies as suspects if and ever they are given US visas. Dr. Latheef and gang are also under constant watch now.

Similarly Anni, Sappe & Latheef must inform the host countries to ensure Gayyoom and his gang are denied visas to any of these countries in the future.

Ahmed
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 11:14:50 (MDT)

This argument also boils down to the Sunni Muslims and Shiites. The only fundamental difference is that Shiites believe that that the leaders should be of Mohamed's heritage. Hence their claim for Ali to be the next Kalifa and so forth. Sunni's believe in electing their leaders.

Afsheen
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 08:42:19 (MDT)

MIAD: I think you completely missed the point of the article. The fact that you pointed out the flaws of human nature on every point of the article is what the article intended to prove. It was a very good sarcastic article about how Islamic constitutions does not necessarily work. It is the proper systems in place to govern the actions of everybody including the leaders that can be the only choice. All such Islamic leader are corrupt to the bone in the world.

Ibu
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 07:41:24 (MDT)

Hi guys.....I tried to visit the website of MDP, but I failed ....can some one check this out for me....is it already banned at the international level?

meean <naeemcz@yahoo.com>
USA - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 06:28:28 (MDT)

Gayyoom is finally running out of money to keep the programs at NSS. Budget cuts and other restraints are making many in the military having second thoughts.

While we know many of our commanders and even Gayyoom's own body guards support Mr. Saadig and we are told to think otherwise. He has been filling the empty pockets of the top brass for years and soon you will see complete chaos in this mad house.

Many follow your articles and also have access to your site. The stories, of which we are part are taken seriously and soon there will be a time, that we turn our guns, not against the people, but to our leaders who are bankrupting us to our bones.

NSS
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 05:43:18 (MDT)

Abdul Kareem: Sappe is not a citizen of UK neither is Saadiq a citizen of US. Get your facts correct please. they are both residents of the said countries. but I do understand your point. Gayyoom cannot extradite these people from the countries they are in. They all have over whelming evidence to corroborate their stories and Gayyoom would have no leg to stand on.

Hussain
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 04:21:09 (MDT)

Your article about a Islamic constitution claims the following advantages!

1. There will be no corruption, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't' corruption prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia? All Maldivians are Muslims aren't' they?)

2. There will be no drug problem, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't drug abuse prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia?)

3. There will be no abuse of power, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't power abuse prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia?)

4. There will be no torture, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't torture prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia?)

5. There will be no adultery, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't adultery prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia?)

6. There will be no theft, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't robbery prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia?)

7. There will be no murder, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't murder of people prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia?)

8. There will be no violence, as it is forbidden in Islam (Isn't violence prohibited in the current Maldivian Constitution as well as in Islamic Sharia?)

All these claims are baseless as it is based on the assumption that whatever is forbidden in Islam will not happen. This is not true and its what's happening in Maldives. We all claims to be Muslims although we continue to give a blind eye to our Constitution and Islamic Sharia.

Wake up guys, we are not living in the era of prophecy. This is 21st century. All humans are prone to wrong doings. The point I am trying to make is that your constitution doesn't safeguard the interests of people. What would happen if the "Khalifa" doesn't obey the Islamic Constitution. What if all those Qadis and others work for their self interest? What can the poor helpless citizens do?

I agree that constitution might have worked in the days of Prophet Mohammed. But you have to remember that Prophets words are that of God and demands absolute obedience. Prophetic regime, which, being under the direct command of God through the revelation, represents a unique - and unrepeatable - instance of God's rule, theocracy. Hence, it is the only ‘state' within history that may demand unconditional obedience from the Muslim. However, this is one exception which ends every other rule; it renders all further claims to theocratic government illegitimate and un-Islamic.

For every post-Prophetic rule is worldly rule, and every post-Prophetic state, Muslim or non-Muslim, under the guidance of the Fiqh or under the governance of the Sultan, is 'fallible'. Hence, the same rationale for submission, which ties the moral man and his conscience to the imperatives of the revelation, cannot be applied to the citizen's relationship with the temporal state.

It is only for the sake of existential security and common good that Muslims constitute a polity in a limited sense. Faith is the truth of Islam, polity is its method.

Therefore as Muslims, we have a right to demand a say in the political governance of our nation. The Islamic debate on civil and public liberties will start when we stop confounding State with Paradise, political order with divine order, contingency with eternity, in the manner of the secularists! Indeed, we must rectify our propensity for conceiving the State in terms of the regime of Law, mistaking an immanent polity for a transcendent moral order.

Yes we need a true democracy!

Name and email removed on request
Maldives - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 04:20:33 (MDT)

Gayyoom now considers Dhivehi Observer to be more dangerous to him than even the political parties. You guys are reaching out to the the masses (slowly), have united all opposition under one ideal (to remove Gayyoom) and continue to nit-pick on everything Gayyoom does. If you guys keep reporting on every action then Gayyoom will definitely run out of options.

The articles on Dr. Saeed, exposing him for the hypocrite he is, was simply marvellous. If you can discredit everybody in the high ranks with FACTS, then they would be left with only 2 choices, either go down with Gayyoom or change their ways and serve the people.

Keep doing the same thing everyday, discredit the whole organisation of Gayyoom, while organising a replacement interim government and draft plans to improve the lives of the people.

In the mean time, us insiders in the Gayyoom organisation (Gayyoom has NO idea of who the insiders are in PO) will continue destabilising his government from within jeopardising certain plans of his . If we can bring it close to a collapse (external and internal pressure is a good weapon) in the next 6 months to one year, the NSS is going to come on board the reform movement with some powerful military personnel to uproot, prosecute Gayyoom and his cronies.

Time is on our side.

PO insider
Male', K Maldives - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 23:24:49 (MDT)

I think Gayyoom will need another 25 years to physically harm any opposition leader. Surely Gayyoom will know the consequences of even attempting to harm them.

Jalla
Perth, Australia - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 19:10:20 (MDT)

Who does Dr Saeed works for? My understanding is that he is the Attorney General and hence his obligation is to defend the government of the day! Or was he appointed by the public to safe guard our democratic rights? This is all becoming very interesting. I bet they (the Gayyoom regime including Dr Saeed) have no idea what they are doing now. Good work everyone. Keep up the pressure.

Ahmed Shahid
Maldives - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 19:00:44 (MDT)

Gayyoom had tried several times to allow freedom of speech (in his time frame). Sangu & Hukuru is a good example. He just cannot tolerate people criticising his policies and exposing his cronies. Dr. Saeed is totally a
newcomer and it would take him to learn what is freedom of speech in stages.

Here we are talking about basic rights of people guaranteed by the constitution. Either we have freedom or dictatorial rules. There is no slow approach for freedom of speech.

I guess it is ok so long as we stop short of calling Gayyoom a crook, dictator or a murderer. Let's call a dictator a dictator and not a beloved leader.

Haveeru
Male, Maldives - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 16:04:57 (MDT)

The fact that DO has galvanised so much support within the Maldives, allows MLD contacts everywhere to report any untoward action by Maumoon. Sappe keep up your work and will keep you posted.

Insider
Male, Maldives - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 15:35:50 (MDT)

It's sad, when the Attorney General goes on to say that the government has continuously, repeatedly, broken the fundamental laws of the country (article 25, constitution), and nobody even thinks about it, or has the balls to prosecute them for it. (on the comment by attorney general, that press freedom has been violated by the current regime).

kesbe
Maldives - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 12:29:53 (MDT)

Dear DO
Who in Canada is publishing the Saadiq biography? Is there any DO/MDP/MLD activity in Canada? If so, how do I sign up?

Reform advocate
Canada - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 10:44:10 (MDT)

Unfortunately DO does not operate out of Canada. If you would like to help, please refer to our announcements. - Ed.

Mr. President. When you say free and fair elections, have you also changed the meanings of the words 'free' and 'fair' much like how you make new words while there are existing words to describe certain things?

Muju M. Naeem <Former co-editor of Dhivehi Observer and author of the short story 'IMAGINE THE HISTORY OF')
Brisbane, QLD Australia - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 10:26:04 (MDT)

Just can't wait to read Saadiq's autobiography!

Maree
Vancouver, Canada - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 10:15:56 (MDT)

What Gayyoom fails to understand is that these individuals have contacted the governments of the countries mentioned long time ago, explaining and giving ample evidence of their problems and situation in the Maldives. Mere words from him will not make these governments to tie them up and send them to Maldives. Now lets look at the position of each of them.

Saadiq : Is a US citizen now (through asylum)
Anni : has officially been granted Political Asylum in UK (eligible for UK citizenship)
Sappe' : UK citizen
Latheef: Has permanent residency and more friends than Gayyoom in Sri Lankan government

And, these governments have been told everything about these people and there is no way Gayyoom can convince them otherwise; so Gayyoom can dream on but his pleas will fall to deaf ears and the question of legitimacy; anyone who understand law will not argue with the fact that he has no legal authority over his claim; and free and fair election! well, as Maldivians we know how free and how fair he is; What an idiot! And, is standing up to him and criticising him a CRIME! False accusations is a crime! So, might I say he is the BIGGEST CRIMINAL in the Maldives.

Abdul Karim <Observer Fan - Student in UK>
London, UK - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 03:29:22 (MDT)

Gayyoom finally accepts MLD Education Reform plan and brings the atolls into zones. I am glad they have finally come to senses and have seen the impact of Saadiq DP. This is a good step in the right direction. Now we need more pay and to reinstall our benefits.

CHSE
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 22:12:08 (MDT)

Maumoon has informed the UK/USA/Sri Lankan government his displeasure for allowing Maldivian "dissidents" using these countries to attack his "legitimate" government. A letter has been dispatched today through his embassies in Colombo, London and through their UN mission.

In his letter he complains of growing number of Maldivians who are no more than "common criminals" are voicing their anger and calling for violence to over throw his legitimate and democratically elected government. In this letter he claims, the websites by these criminal groups are nothing further than the truth.

He reiterates that he was recently elected by a unanimous vote in the parliament and obtained over 90% of the vote in a free and fair election.

His government in this letter calls the host countries to stop any support to these criminals and to stop using their countries to create and incite violence in a peaceful country like the Maldives. He also urged the governments to uproot these elements and to send them to Maldives to face justice.

SAPPE, ANNI, SAADIQ, & LATHEEF please watch out!

Minex
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 20:01:34 (MDT)

NSS has again refused to release critical documents requested by a Canadian publisher who is publishing a book called "A JOURNEY FROM AN ISLAND TO FREEDOM" "WHY MY PEOPLE ARE CRYING FOR CHANGE", an autobiography of Ismail Saadiq. The book is due this fall both in English and French.

Breaking News
Perth, Australia - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 17:33:40 (MDT)

Sappe, now that these articles are read by foreign law makers & diplomats, please concentrate your articles to them instead of overseas Maldivians.

Ali
Vancouver, Canada - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 10:16:03 (MDT)

This guy Maumoon is a genius because I say you have fallen right into his next trap. Formula is Qasim = Gayyoom. If you want Gayyoom out why Qasim? Hah, he secured an IFC loan. It's the royals share for the royal island . Perhaps, a sovereign guarantee. He has all the members for Parliament now in his palm . You are sick of puppets in Gayyoom's cabinet but you are ok with a puppet parliament? Ayyo! Aparaadi. His philanthropic efforts for what? Vote him for President and then we have our beloved country in the arms of a complete idiot.

Fountain <fountain85@hotmail.com>
Mauritius - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 07:20:30 (MDT)

Gayyoom resigns and leaves the country with as much money as he possibly can. He has the rest of the devils associates either fly with him or give them orders to create havoc in the country. The news of Gayyoom's departure rapidly spreads in the country. People get out on the streets, in small groups at corners of main streets.
Discussions heat up, tempers flare. Scenes of the fateful day in September 2003 are re-enacted. Petrol bombs are thrown at the Palace, the NSS HQ, residences of Ministers, and the PO. Pictures of Gayyoom from different government buildings are dragged on to the street with people spitting on them, peeing on them and....
The NSS personnel on duty react to the hostile public by firing in the air.

NSS, PO and Palace are surrounded by thousands of people, most of whom just wanting to be a part of the history. Waiting hours of the new developments heavy smoke is seen coming out of PO and Theemuge. The millions of dollars invested in the elegant buildings going up in flames.

IGMH and ADK soon have people brought in with serious injuries, burns, stab wounds and other major injuries. Several people are killed when they try to enter the NSS compound by force.

Some of the more radically minded people pouring onto the streets, still under the influence of the stuff they had the previous night, gets hold of armed policemen at different locations in Male' and beat them to death. Then armed with the very weapons that were once used against them charge at the NSS compound firing at will.

The battle field opens up as the NSS use more potent weapons in their armoury. Several explosions are heard around the NSS compound. Bodies bathed in blood lie on the roads, body parts hang from the trees. The public gathered around the compound scatter and flee for cover. During the next few minutes some sense flows into the NSS personnel at the HQ. But the damage done is irreversible.

The people who had called for Gayyoom to resign, had not expected him to leave so suddenly. The same people after having heard of the situation in the country call for calm and peaceful transition on the DO forums. But there is no one reading that today.

There is no one the people could look up to then and there. The chaos, the terrible human and material loss that Maldivian are suffering on this day are huge.

Occasional shots are still being fired here and there. But those of the public who had armed themselves are soon running out of ammunition. The day drags on for many people. They see their livelihood being destroyed by their own people.

When an eerie calm finally blankets the island capital, those of them brave enough to venture out on to the streets of Male' find shops looted, buildings vandalised, government offices burned down, the streets littered with paper, damaged furniture, clothes....body parts. At some of the main junctions of the streets of Male' were the beheaded remains of those suspected of being soft towards the Gayyoom family. What had we hoped for? What had we dreamed of? Our people had this hatred boiling within them for years. The flame of revenge had been burning for years. And finally when we got what we had wanted for all these years.....look at what we have done.

Where are those people who had said that they will make things better? Where are they who had helped us identify with our hatred and sufferings? Why hadn't they prepared us for this day?

The loss, which ever way you look at it, is for the people. If only we were better prepared for this day. If only we believed this day was this near. If only we had made plans for a peaceful transition.

I cried for Maldives then, I cry now but should I also cry tomorrow?

Reality Check
Male', Maldives - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 02:17:08 (MDT)

I am overwhelmed with emotion and tears every time I read some of the stories about Maumoon Gayyoom and what he is doing to our people.

As I read the MLD DP the 8th time today, I couldn't help but wonder how it is possible that the people of Maldives is 1.8 BILLION Rufiyaa (2.12.7 - MLD DP) in debt to the Gayyoom government (implied in the DP)?

Aharumen Dhivehin mithibee dharaa vikifa ehhnu? An he is still continuing to squeeze our throats.

I call for Gayyoom to put in place proper democratic institutions and to resign immediately OR WE WILL REMOVE YOU MUCH LIKE AMIN!!!!

Aisha
Male', Maldives - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 00:22:47 (MDT)

I would like to congratulate Dhivehi Observer for the stand you have taken. You are proving to the people that there are people out there that are interested in more than being a gold digger.

Is it just me, or am I wrong in feeling that Dhivehi Observer's work is ground breaking and a Historical event for the Maldives? You are providing a platform for proper political discourse without bias so that we might see some change.

I wonder how Muju is feeling now about leaving Dhivehi Observer? heh.

In Support of DO
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 23:53:31 (MDT)

Regarding the Hassan Haleem comment, I think you are kidding too about Sappe' being the Transport Minister.. may be he can do like Ilyas. So will there be any difference then???

We are shouting on top of our voice to bring better educated and reliable people for the posts. And appointing Sappe to the Transport Minister would be appointing another Ilyas. So where does that leave us - looks like we came back to square one.

And regarding some one who has referred people who work in the government are thugs and cronies of the regime... my friend you are very wrong. All people who work for the government are not with Maumoon. But they work for the government and NOT for HIM. so be careful what you say and refer to.

Ali Adam
Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 22:46:02 (MDT)

Haveeru people you have at least started righting some interesting stuff. The things we want to change and improve with some critical analysis. Thanks for the change. Please keep it up and improve a lot more.

Haveeru U turn
Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 22:40:59 (MDT)

Tedry, Yoosey and all interested parties. Why don't you submit applications or request permission to launch your own commercial TV channels and see how Almighty Maumoon responds. I'm sure its not prohibited specifically in the law. Best of luck.

Dhivehi TV channel
Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 22:32:58 (MDT)

The best thing so far you have done is to bring a written document from Saadiq. This had brought many new readers to this forum. Before the DP, it was only loose talk. Now we have a written agenda.

We are passing these articles to every Parliament/Congress member in Canada/UK/USA and to let the law makers in these countries know about the frustrated people of the Maldives.

MDP members in Colombo must send these articles to all the embassies in Sri Lanka and to members of SAARC. MDP London office must send these articles to all western media, tour operators, all airlines serving Maldives and to fleet street editors.

Together we can bring this regime down. We should flood these offices with emails, regular mail and facsimiles. We should also encourage Maldivians to write to President Gayyoom through all available means and tell him directly about our feelings.

We should also write to his overseas offices in UK/New York/Colombo/Singapore and to honorary ambassadors as their job is to report about our work to him.

Let us individually do our part and do it every day until we see the back of this regime. We can do it and we are gonna do it!

Rashid Ali
Calgary, Canada - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 22:09:08 (MDT)

To: Mr Ibrahim Ismail (Ibra).

I saw on this web site that you are a candidate for the Male' seat. Thanks for offering your services. The poem was sweet but not enough. Could you please let the people of Maldives and the residents of Male' in particular know, what exactly you would do on their behalf once elected.

What will your views be about election, parliament, prison services, health sector.....etc. What topics are of interest to you. On what key areas will you focus during your time in office. DETAILS please. Show that you are different. Specify your aims.....this will help us understand you better. It will also help us to make you accountable to the public when you don't do what you claim you would.

Feeadback
NY, USA - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 22:01:30 (MDT)

My favourite for the Presidency is Nasira, Moya Nasira I believe you call. There are three reasons for that

1. She too is hard working, dynamic and a successful businessman.

2. I believe Environmental issues are critical for Maldives. She too have a VISION to protect two Mango trees in Velaanaage.

3. Electing her as the next president will give a major boost for our efforts in Gender Equality

Dream Team
Malé, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 21:17:46 (MDT)

Ilthimaas 3 is the best piece of advice any of our politicians or political activists has given to his people. Good work Brother Sappe. You have what it takes to lead us.

Kelvin Soru
Planet Earth, Our Solar System - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 20:28:14 (MDT)

I saw this in Haveeru today.

Lack of qualified professionals hinders efficient auditing of public finance
Sunday, 23 May 2004

MALE, May 23 (HNS) -- Lack of qualified professionals still hinder the efficient auditing of public finance, Maldives auditor general said last week.

State Minister Ismail Fathy said that priority is given to training of personnel but that it still has not solved the problem.

"We find it difficult to retain trained staff as after their public service bond is over, they join the private sector which offers more lucrative fees," Fathy said.

The minister said that he hoped that hindrances in efficient auditing of public finance can somewhat be overcome when those presently undergoing auditing training overseas returns back to Maldives.

The Audit Office is doing all it can now to make the system efficient with available technical and human resources, Fathy said.

Just two days ago I was denied by the Ministry of Education to continue my Bachelors in Accounting and to do Masters in auditing.

Unless Ismail Fathy can audit Theemuge and NSS why is he worried about accounting other offices. STO is audited based on how much profit Yameen wants to show in his books. Did any one audit the Air Maldives?

Come on! What is this rubbish!

Auditor
KL, Malaysia - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 19:39:55 (MDT)

When did Isthafa learn how to read Quran. Isthafa told me that he requested Gayyoom to allow him to visit the palace to read the Quran, so Gayyoom could not say NO. Now that he is no longer in NSS, I don't find any reason why he is there.

Why not Gayyoom invite people who really know how to read Quran. There are so many in the country.

NSS
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 19:29:21 (MDT)

Sappe' your Ilthimaas 3 is literally ground breaking. We cannot thank you enough for the work you are doing.

Thank you Sappe', everyone I know loves you and follows your work. We wait for the day you come back and serve us; we trust you will serve us soon; please be safe and take care! We are praying for a better future for us all!

Dhon Mohonu
Velidhoo, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 16:59:11 (MDT)

There was a time when a graduate became a wakeel during President Nasir's time. Then came Gayyoom who promoted every graduate to a military officer. Thereafter hundreds of graduates flooded the shores. So now a Master degree will reach you to be an administrative officer, and a PhD will get you up to a Deputy Director.

When a dhe numberu kaathib can become a director general or an executive director why is Gayyoom wasting peoples money to send Maldivians overseas.

I think it is time to stop this abuse, so he can remain in power until a day NSS could carry him around like the late Indonesian President Abdul Rahman.

Why a PhD
Montreal , Canada - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 16:58:38 (MDT)

This forum has brought very interesting thoughts and views from many frustrated people. There are also many who regularly visit the guestbook and read the interesting articles, but still remain silent.

Many of the readers support the views and the openness of DO. So thanks to Sappe to keep this going.

By bringing the "wild card" Saadiq and his DP, you have woken up the "sleeping giant" and his supporters who have been persevere in their efforts to bring a change to this brutal regime.

I think the people who work for various organization must not inhibit any aspiration for a senior post in any new government. We have a large pool of talented people and if they are willing to do what they preach they are not going to be there forever.

Tourist
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 14:23:44 (MDT)

I am impressed with the Dream Team proposed. Especially people like Mr. Majid (Le Cute) is known to be one of the most dynamic and easy going businessmen in the country. He is known to be a man of absolute conviction and heads one of the most successful business group in the country.

Also, it is interesting to see how Mohamed Ali - the son of Mr. Koli Ali Manik) is proposed as Tourism Minister.

Personally, my favourite for the President is Sappe. I think he deserves much credit for standing up against this regime in the way he did and his continued pressure to promote democracy in the Maldives. He is the reason behind this united opposition. He is proving to be quite a dynamic character. Nevertheless, he probably needs experience in government.

A Latheef
Cairo, Egypt - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 13:27:13 (MDT)

A PhD is not a ticket to become a cabinet minister, but it is an acknowledgement from the University for..........that's not the point.

In the Maldives any future government will use the vast talent available and allow them to be part of the policy makers.

You cannot convince Hameed or Ilyas for that matter to listen to educated people. Besides these doctorate holders will not agree with Gayyoom all the time, unless they want to remain in Gayyoom's cabinet.

PhD
Vancouver, Canada - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 13:23:38 (MDT)

Why is Gayyoom inviting Isthafa Ibrahim Maniku every Thursday night to read Koran in Theemuge. Is his relationship with Isthafa still intact?

I guess Gayyoom is scared to keep him too far away.

Sarudhaaru
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 13:08:43 (MDT)

Gayyoom should stop us going overseas to study and waste the people's money. If he cannot use our service and knowledge it would be better to send only his family members and keep the rest in our islands and ask us to go fishing and buy our catch whenever he wants.

Unless he replace his advisors who consist of Saikuraa Naeem, Zakariyya Hameed, Bokasha Ahmed, Naifaru Hadee, Abdul Latheef and his Cairo click, we are not going to see any changes.

I wonder whether he can stand educated people and if so must be wondering how easy it is for him to manipulate them and to get them do things which they themselves know is wrong.

Student
KL, Malaysia - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 13:05:23 (MDT)

It seems like there is a lot of competition to be the Transport Minister!! I wonder why??! I am a fisherman, and a successful fisherman indeed. Have got 3 Dhoani's registered under me and I am the keyolhu in one of them. I think I can manage people and I have proven it to the people of this island. So why cant I be the next transport minister?! I think I can do a great job. So please include my name as well in the candidates for the Transport Minister. I think I have much experience than atleast Sappe' in managing people. So please elect me for that post.

Keyolhu <keyolhu@DO.org>
Foakaidhoo, Shaviyani Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 12:50:22 (MDT)

We all know why Saadiq was arrested. We all know that once his case was sent to the courts, Gayyoom changed three judges at criminal court. When the final judge refused to charge Saadiq on "loose evidence", and acquitted him, he was transferred to Aminiyya School.

Finally the case was sent to High court by the President's office and Gayyoom appealed stating that the Criminal court refused to give him "his" justice. The under signed was told by the Chief Justice of the High Court that they found no evidence to charge Sodiq except that the President himself wants to charge him.

The former attorney general Dr. Munavvar himself spoke to Mohamed Hussain at PO saying there was no legal grounds to appeal, but he was instructed to send the appeal to the high court.

I only hope a MDP/MLD government will provide justice for many who have been denied. Both Anni and Sodiq have seen the existing justice system controlled by the President.

Hussain Yoosuf
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 12:47:01 (MDT)

A democracy is always temporary in nature; it simply cannot exist as a permanent form of government. A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover that they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that every democracy will finally collapse due to loose fiscal policy, (which is) always followed by a dictatorship.

The average age of the world's greatest civilizations from the beginning of history, has been about 200 years. During those 200 years, these nations always progressed through the following sequence:

From Bondage to spiritual faith;
From spiritual faith to great courage;
From courage to liberty;
From liberty to abundance;
From abundance to complacency;
From complacency to apathy;
From apathy to dependence; and
From dependence back into bondage.

Democracy
Perth, Australia - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 12:32:47 (MDT)

It is really shame on Gayyoom to use his family members to run a country when he has so much talented people who are genuinely interested to serve the people and the country who paid for their education.

Gayyoom, please resign !

A graduate
Perth, Australia - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 11:11:10 (MDT)

We can afford to have a separate Ministry for Aviation and have another Ministry of "whatever to accommodate Sappe". The new dream team will not be there for 25 years so who cares, how long will Sappe serve in any new government?

I want to know whether Saadiq has any room for Sappe. I think Sappe should head MTCC the biggest construction company, a public enterprise and prove that he is capable of protecting the shareholders interest.

My last word. Sappe would be any day better than Ilyas, Moosa Ismail and the rest of the cronies at Ministry of Transport.

I still think Saadiq's plan of rotating Ministers (like in Singapore) would be better so the people could pick and choose who serves them best.

Aviator
Haltom City, TX USA - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 11:00:52 (MDT)

Unfortunately the words, "sorry and apologise" are not there in Gayyoom's Azhar dictionary. We need a loaded gun to his head for him to utter those words.

Literature
Perth, Australia - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 10:46:43 (MDT)

I don't agree that all Gayyoom's cabinet and senior officials consists of crooks and cronies. (Some are on MDP's list of leaders) Similarly there are some cabinet members and senior officials who are there, just because they were selected and they are helping Sodiq and MLD to let them know what others don't know.

Before we can have a people's government we need to replace the current regime. MLD is working through western governments, international donors and also within the administration and the impeccable military to change the regime with minimum or no bloodshed.

I think the writers, will agree that the western and neighbouring governments won't support a change of regime until we have credible sources in the highest political and military establishment.

We should all put pressure on Gayyoom to make reforms and to make things easier for our people until we could replace him. We are heading in the right direction.

I support Saadiq/MLD to continue their work instead of being on the front page of Dhivehi Observer everyday. Dhivehi Observer should be praised to bring out the Sodiq's DP out to the public and the support it generated is unimaginable.

Now some of the people who understand English have a glimpse of hope and once Sappe can put up a Dhivehi version of it the rest of the people will read the "Development Program" and know that they have a choice. A choice of suffering and pain or a real choice of hope and happiness.

Insider
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 10:43:38 (MDT)

From the cabinet list posted, I assume that priority has been given to people with higher education. Well, I'm doing my PhD in Transport Management and will be finishing within a year. So I guess I will be having a better qualification that Sappe'. So in that sense, I want to be the Transport Minister in the next cabinet. I'm willing to give Sappe' the deputy Minister's post. Hope he wont have any rejection with that. Also hope he wont have problems in taking orders from me.

Transport Minister <minister@transport.gov.mv>

Vancouver, Canada - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 09:47:58 (MDT)

Your Excellency President Gayyoom, I have a important message for you, I want you to please think about this very seriously. Dhivehi Observer is unbiased as far as I can see and I have no doubt that they will publish this in their forum and in the Message for Maumoon section as well. Here is my message.

"Have you ever thought of becoming a hero? People will forgive you for your past if you resurrect our nation and give people what they truly deserve. Self redemption is a noble characteristic of humanity. Live for others, you are responsible for the welfare of a whole nation; it is your duty to listen to your subjects. "

Adam Mohammed
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 07:12:17 (MDT)

The author of 'The Empire of Ignorance, Hypocrisy and Obedience' wrote:

"People cannot shape policies, much less institutions, unless they reach a critical mass. To reach a critical mass, we need to take a stand, and we need to awaken our neighbours, our parents, our friends.

It works. That’s the way change happens every time, from Alabama blacks’ right to ride in the front of the bus to Torres Strait islanders’ right to own their land. And it’s enjoyable. Most people I know prefer to work with others for a distant goal than to sit isolated in their living rooms. Apathy is an illusion. We are isolated, so we assume that no one else has any interest in changing the world, and we join the official game -- work harder, buy more. When we break the isolation, when we talk to strangers, we realize that most people share the same interests.

Many people are waking up. Michael Moore’s popularity is a sign of dissent. Many will try to change society if they see a way.

There's no secret. To change the 'system', we need to take a stand and wake up people around us: parents, friends, workmates. At some point it becomes acceptable to disagree -- IT BECOMES THE NORM TO DISAGREE. It doesn’t work overnight, but it’s the only sure way to produce change. "

Scarr
Johannesburg, Africana - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 07:12:17 (MDT)

Regarding the "Cabinet" in question. We should have more PhD holders than that. I am sure. I will have mine in an year.....I want the transport ministership thank you.

Voter
Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 07:01:15 (MDT)

Concerned Maldivian, you must be kidding thinking that Ilyas Ibrahim know much about aviation or even to write the word "aviation" or the name of his ministry for that matter! At least Sappe can do that! Same goes for Hameed and Ibrahim Maniku!

Wake up brother! Whether you like it or not it is now time for Sappe's generation to take over the responsibilities.

From that list you could only attack him.. there must be a reason for that.

Sappe is more educated and capable than most members of the current cabinet, certainly more educated than all the members of Gayyoom family in the cabinet and certainly more educated than Gayyoom himself. Ever heard of a phrase CREATIVE THINKING!

Hassan Haleem
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 07:00:25 (MDT)

I wonder who is the real brains behind DO. Is it Sappe or somebody possibly educated in Media Management skills. And somebody who is very good at that. Because the whole concept behind Dhivehi Observer and its approach is quite good and very appealing.

Good work guys.

Hhhhmmmm

The Brains
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 06:51:16 (MDT)

Ey concerned Maldivian. I think you missed the point of that post completely. Plus, whoever posted it on DO is fishing for information, popularities of the persons mentioned, what the people feel about them. It is intended as a idea collecting tool. And that is also a good thing, because "the world is run by opinions".

Alho
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 06:27:58 (MDT)

It appears that there are no mishaps about the Dream Team after all. I believe that the core of the matter here is that we take away the idea from these posts that Gayyoom has refrained from using the crème de la crème of our nation solely to keep maximum control on power.

The idea that we should take away is the fact that Maldives is blessed with very talented, experienced and dynamic people who certainly can take this tiny nation of ours forward with more diligence and capacity that will deliver a better quality of life for every single Maldivian. What is also interesting is that this really is a Dream Team, they are all capable people and perhaps there are more UK graduates here because this person who posted or compiled the list is most likely a UK graduate. (I think it is Sappey who did this!)

Never the less, it is creating some thought processes which will most certainly empower a few, it will hit the nerves of those few who have dreamt of serving our nation. Let us be absolutely clear about one thing. Any Maldivian who wishes to serve the people with conviction has a right to dream about the top job in the field he or she wishes. It is not something to be ashamed of and it is not arrogant to express such desire and visions.

This notion of Gayyoom and his family and friends being the only people able to run our country is on the other hand more mind-boggling and incomprehensible.

Once again it is the idea that is important at this stage not the people. Whoever comes to lead the Maldives in the future has a great many number of able people to pick from to server the nation properly.

I am impressed with the works of Dhivehi Observer for coming up with these tactful ideas to empower the people and at the same time give Gayyoom and his friends something to think about. Sappe you and your friends are doing a great service to the nation. Keep up the good work!

Hassan Hussain <scared@ofgayoom.com>
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 06:19:40 (MDT)

I would like to Congratulate Sappe' in advance, since he is going to be our next Transport Minister. This will surely help enormously to his ambition to be the President in a near future. Well done Sappe' and keep up the hard work.

Congratulations <congrats@hotmail.com>
Kihaadhoo, Baa Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 05:42:31 (MDT)

Well, I was just looking at this proposed new so called cabinet list. I have to agree that some of the candidates in the list are very capable of those posts. But in the meantime some of the names seems to me ridiculous. Leading a nation needs character in the modern world. The leader is the face that will be presented to the international community. Being a successful entrepreneur does not make a person a credible leader to lead a nation. Also having people who crave for power and convicted criminals does not show a nice picture. Then what is the difference between Maumoon and the people who are using all possible biased and unfounded claims to bring down a government whether it has been a democratically elected government or not. Great leaders are the ones who are not conscious of power and is ready to give it away for the betterment of the people. Which is why I see the list to be the biggest joke presented by these tugs so far.

biggest joke ever <jokers@hotmail.com>
London, UK - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 04:20:52 (MDT)

When we think of possible candidates for our next government it is of paramount importance that we DO NOT select anyone who is directly or indirectly involved in corruption. Or have benefited from it. The present "Dream Team" is a good starting point for discussion and screening of potential leaders. However, there are a few in the "Dream Team" which we - the non corrupt people - reject outright.

Mohamed Rasheed
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 04:01:12 (MDT)

Ey ignorance gets best... Sappe might know how to become the transport minister.. But the guy got a degree in manufacture of polymer... so u think anyone who has done engineering has the knowledge of maritime field.. so my friend.. who's talking sense and who's not!!!!!

You guys make me laugh sometimes..

Concerned Maldivian
Maldives- Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 03:24:40 (MDT)

That's exactly what I was implying , Kirey. People first.....the government should be a "public slave"....

Sarcastic
Marseille, France - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 03:01:13 (MDT)

This is so exiting and fun to read this Open Forum. People calling names to people. People getting angry at people for no apparent reason and Gayyoom getting mad because of DO.

Why does it matter who our president is, as long as we have a proper democratic system that respects all human rights and works for the peoples benefit? Isn't that what we want? If we look for another person to replace Gayyoom, then all we will find is another person. Its the whole friggin' system that needs to change.

I love you guys. Keep up the good work.

Hussain
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 02:07:16 (MDT)

Furathama Misuru party, then UK party, who else next? It's like a country club for a selective few either way. Think of the people please!!!

Kirey
Addu, Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 01:51:32 (MDT)

Concerned Maldivian: Sappe' has done Engineering and Science. What do you mean he wouldn't know how to be a Transport Minister. Talk sense man!!!

Ignorance gets the best of you
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 01:38:35 (MDT)

Sappe' as the transport Minister??? You must be kidding.. The guy doesn't know anything about the laws of Aviation, Maritime or land.

So now what makes him, another Gayyoom. There are much better people like Mahmoodh Razee who has acquired lot of knowledge in the field and still holding a high post in the transport ministry.

So Sappe' leave your selfishness and get on with your life mate!!!

Concerned Maldivian
Maldives - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 00:25:30 (MDT)

I just want to let you know that my family and I will vote for Saadiq. We have seen his contributions to fellow students. He met many of us when we were in KL and helped every individual student.

But most of all, I like the encouragement he gave to me and to others. I think he is one person who loves Maldives.

He told us that to disagree with Maumoon is no crime. If you don't like something write to him, whether he bothers to reply or not, it doesn't matter, but at least let him know your feelings.

Even today, many of my friends who were at KL, writes to him and they are all very excited to read about him from your website.

Thank you Sappe.

Naree
Suva, Fiji - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 23:03:15 (MDT)

Is there anyone else who can come forward and present himself to lead the Maldives after Gayyoom? We are trying to take a poll to check the public opinion to see what it would be like for Gayyoom/Qasim/Saadiq.

Sappe, will let you know.

Gallup - Maldives
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 22:30:59 (MDT)

The question is who will bell the cat? Before we could have a new government or a new leadership, we have to work hard to remove the existing Gayyoom's regime. Is Qasim willing to bell the cat? If not he must step aside and continue helping others who are working hard to achieve this goal.

Bell boy
Perth, Australia - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 20:10:58 (MDT)

Is this MDP all about Qasim Ibrahim? Are these his disgruntled cronies? It would be better for Qasim to come out and tell the people that his interest is to help these people instead of any of his own ambitions.

Kandi
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 19:46:18 (MDT)

Its nice to see we discussing about different candidates for president. Saadiq, Qasim,.. This is an answer to people who think there are no people who can lead this country. Hope all these candidates if and when elected as a president will learn the lesson of Mr. Gayyoom and Nasir. Never stay for more than two terms and resign with peoples love and admiration is still intact and return to your former jobs. Live with us as a respected and loved elder and ex-president.

Vote
Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 19:31:25 (MDT)

Ahmadhiyaa School Principal Saeed for education minister (heard he has a masters from UK) at least he knows how to get results even with underprivileged kids. PhD or no PhD we want people like that. I feel saddened when I see the barely literate people trying to lead us in various fields compared to the available cream of the cream in the dream team list. What a waste. Curse you Mr. Gayyoom for wasting our most valuable assets. The educated people.

Sad
Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 19:19:29 (MDT)

I have worked for Qasim over 15 years and I think I know a little about this man. He is a very kind hearted man. He thinks the government and it's influence on the people had passed any limits. His interest in politics is genuine and his dream is to help others because he knows too well what's life for the average man on the street.

I think he should continue his support to these very talented people both financially and morally to bring change and to help and guide them thereafter. While Universal makes more money and takes more money out of Maldives even more than 100% foreign investors, Qasim on the other hand is giving away his money to others so he could make a difference. BUT still he is NOT the best person to lead a nation.

In case of Saadiq, he loves to work with educated people (not only people who are educated in UK) but also from all over the world. He is more flexible and able to work his way through board meetings, and tough negotiations with International lenders.

Saadiq will never loose his temper, while Qasim needs to improve his public image. I think end of the day Qasim will support Saadiq too.

Villa Marine
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 17:51:03 (MDT)

Qasim has built an empire all centered on himself and he takes great pride in getting involved in every little thing. You cannot lead a nation like that.

It would be more appropriate for him to become a person who had helped and changed this government and remain like an elder statesman.

Where as Saadiq has a vision and worldwide network of contacts and the ability to work as a team with more educated and knowledgeable people. His back ground is to bring the most talented people and get them to work for the company not for him. Qasim is completely opposite. People work for him not for Villa whereas people who works for Saadiq is proud to be in the institution. They are allowed and encouraged to disagree with him all the time.

But in case of Qasim, it is always his own way, no matter how much more it would cost.

Qasim is a good choice but Saadiq and his team looks much much better.

Royal Island
Baa Atoll, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 12:33:11 (MDT)

While we all admire Qasim for all his work, it is not wise for a person with so much commercial involvement to lead a nation. We have recently seen the trouble in Korea, Philippines and now in Italy where leaders are involved with day to day business. Qasim would be a good advisor to any future government.

A person like Saadiq, who have world wide experience and the talent to invite Bankers and investors are would be a better choice.

We cannot afford Qasim to tumble. I would still prefer Saadiq, his policies makes more sense.

Paradise
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 12:15:25 (MDT)

NO..... I will not vote for Qasim. He is too rich....for one reason ...And....why does most of the proposed cabinet members are educated from UK? Aren't there any others who are... hmmmm.... just wondering!

Sarcastic
Marseille, France - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 11:38:07 (MDT)

Sappe, I am really thrilled with the dream teams' vision that they have submitted. With so many knowledgeable people in the field will make the government strong and accountable if that is to be so. But as always in a democracy there has to be some changes here and there in the posts. As the saying goes democracy has to run like thread in the government it to be free from any ill treatment of individuals.

Beybe
Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 08:29:31 (MDT)

We love and respect Qasim and hope that soon he can be our President. There is no doubt that he cares about Maldivians. We dream of the day someone like Qasim will become our President. There is no island that will not support him.

Ibrahim Khalidh
Rathafandhoo, GDh Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 08:21:55 (MDT)

Will Maldivians be lucky enough to get a government like this? This article can get Qasim and other who are listed into trouble. Gayyoom is Mr. Paranoid! On the other hand, how can we know about anyone unless we read it from somewhere like Dhivehi Observer?

What a wonderful feeling to even think about another government!!! Sappe' you are a genius!

Kuda Abdulloa
Bandos, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 08:29:17 (MDT)

Qasim and Saadiq are two very close friends and admire each other. Both will compromise for the good of the people. Let them decide instead of we telling them whom we want.
My reading is that Qasim will support Saadiq because he trust him.

Roma
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 07:47:46 (MDT)

If Gayyoom can arrest people for turning his picture from one side to another we should hang him upside down. How far can he go?

I am visiting the atoll, but I can tell you, people are really moved by your work and desperate for change. If you could publish a Dhivehi version of that DP of Saadiq, it would be a beginning of a new revolution.

I hope it won't take 25 years like our Koran translation. Peoples expectations are so high, they are just waiting to see a written alternative.

Your selfless work won't go down the drain. We love you. Here in the south Saadiq seems to be more popular than Qasim. For you and me whether it is Saadiq or Qasim doesn't matter. We need this Gayyoom's picture out of our offices.

Fathey
Kaadedu, GD Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 06:15:20 (MDT)

Qasim is the best person to take over the job and he is the only who can united the people of Maldives.

We don't know much about Saadiq besides he has been hanging around with corrupt individuals and is famous to buy his way into thing. Definitely Qasim!

Ahmed
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 05:30:22 (MDT)

Qasim will never accept a public position. Not that he cannot garner support but because he is too humble and honest. While he possess good leadership qualities he will like his very humble beginning rely on small close associates.

For me still Saadiq is a better alternative with Qasim as key advisor with power to wield. Like Sonia Gandhi in India or Carl Rowe in Washington.

Villa
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 05:13:28 (MDT)

Sometimes too much of open talk is not good. Each party must have it's own style of operation. In a close society like in the Maldives, we need some to work very discretely because all these good causes are the frustration of a people who are denied basic freedom.

A website is not a way to claim that you have a party. Besides, if we are all out there, Gayyoom would remain the winner. I assure you that MLD and it's members has the resources and talent to run a website and confront Gayyoom openly, but what is needed is a plan to defeat this "sick" regime, both from external sources and within. Let us help each other to reach our Goal...to replace Gayyoom.

Gayyoom had tried to assassinate Saadiq several times, so it is prudent for him to remain silent at least for a while. You only have seen a glimpse of what he has to offer. The best part is yet to come.

I support MLD's platform, because it is feasible. The rest of the offers on the table so far are invitation for bloodshed.

Mohamed Ibrahim
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 05:42:07 (MDT)

Qasim for President...you must be kidding!

Anthu
KL, Malaysia - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 05:45:15 (MDT)

Qasim would be the best advisor for any future government. He must replace the now notorious Ali Maniku (Koli) and help young and talented academics to run a new government. He must use his resources to help and encourage grassroots organizations.

I would prefer Saadiq because of his reconciliation approach than confrontation and revenge by Qasim.

Jalla
Perth, Australia - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 06:03:13 (MDT)

Food for thought, how about this as a government in Maldives? Let's have a debate? Who supports this. (DO editors, please keep the format I sent you) - I suggest a separate section for this debate.

President - Qasim Ibrahim
Great public figure, people look up to him, philanthropist and a successful business man
Vice President - Dr. Mohamed Munawwaru
Expert in Law. Graduate from Canada, Experience in government
Speaker of the Majlis - Mohamed Nasheed (Anni)
Educated in UK, B Sc in Maritime Law, formidable administrator and a strong believer in democracy
Chief Justice - Shaheen Hameed
Educated in UK and a respected lawyer
Minister of Islamic Affairs - Sheikh Fareedh
An Islamic Scholar, graduate from Qatar, respected by the people
Minister of Foreign Affairs - Dr. Farahnaz Faisal
Holds a PhD in International Politics, highly qualified and must be given an opportunity to serve the Maldives
Minister of Planning and Development - Ali Hussain Di Di
Educated in UK and experience in government Human Resources Management
Ministry of Education - Dr. Muhsin
Holds a PhD in Science, great academic administrator
Ministry of Health - Dr. Ahmed Riza
Holds a PhD in Chemistry, management and teaching experience in UK for 10 years
Ministry of Home Affairs - Dr. Hassan Hameed
Holds a PhD in Critical Thinking - great administrator
Ministry of Defence and National Security - Dr. Mohamed Waheed
Holds a PhD - a well trusted public figure
Ministry of Fisheries - Dr. Hussain Rasheed
Holds a PhD in the field - experience in government
Ministry of Agriculture - Dr. Fathin Hameed
Holds a PhD in the field - experience in government
Ministry of Trade - Abdul Majid (Le Cute)
One of the most successful businessmen in the country known for his ability and vision
Ministry of Finance - Ahmed Riyaz (Thukko)
Reading for PhD in Economics worked in MMA
Ministry of Tourism - Dr. Mohamed Ali (Koli)
PhD from UK and experience in the tourism field
Ministry of Information - Dr. Shaugee
PhD and experience in government
Ministry of Transport - Ahmed Shafeeq (Sappe')
M Phil and B Eng. educated in UK in Engineering and Science
Ministry of Womens Affairs - Aamaal Ali
Educated in UK a well respected figure amongst the youth and committed to development
Ministry of Atolls Administration - Dr. Shaheed
Holds a PhD in Politics and experience in government
Ministry of Communication - Dr. Hassan Shafeeu
PhD in the field with experience
Ministry of Employment & Labour - Dr. Asim
PhD in the field with experience / works in Presidents Office
Attorney General - Muthasim Adnan
Graduate from UK and well known lawyer
Human Rights Commissioner - Mohamed Zaki (NazakI)
Educated and respected public figure
Ambassador to United Nations - Ahmed Mujthaba Hussain
Educated and respected public figure
Ambassador to EU - Ismail Saadiq
Can develop links to Maldives in EU and explore the markets there
Ambassador to UK - Dr. Hassan Ugail
PhD from UK in Mathematics
Ambassador to Sri Lanka and India - Mohamed Latheef (GoGo)
Former MP and an advocate of good governance
Ambassador to Japan - Mohamed Shareef (Mundhu)
Hold Masters in Politics and works in Presidents Office
Ambassador to Australia - Solah Shihab
Experience in Foreign Affair former deputy Minister

Other suggestions and Idea for a future government:

Independent Regulators for Electricity / Water / Telecommunication / Labour and Employment

Atoll Chiefs - Must be elected by the population of the Atoll

Katheeb and Kuda Katheeb - Must be elected by the Island population

Judiciary / Justice System - Must be completely Independent of the Executive and the Legislature
Supreme Court 7 Supreme Court Judges to be elected by people for an initial 5 years and then re-elected for life in a public referendum.

Mohamed
Birmingham, UK - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 05:58:14 (GMT)

My sister in Laamu Fonadhoo got a call from this pollsters and she said she was so scared as she thought it was a hoax from the government.

She told me that she told the caller she supported Gayyoom. Only the Katheeb and his family will support Gayyoom she added. So I asked her why, she agreed that she supported Gayyoom and she told me that her husband's brother was recently arrested in Laamu Gan, when he turned Gayyoom's picture upside down while cleaning the Rashu (island) Office.

I have no more words to add. I am angry.

Wadda
Colombo, Sri Lanka - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 01:38:47 (MDT)

I think I disagree with others that Saadiq had the wrong click of friends. It is because; to my surprise he could spend an evening with visiting Katheebs and fishermen and then spend the rest of the night with ministers (on the record, Gayyoom called some of his ministers and asked why Saadiq was visiting them until 3 am in the morning) and other high officials. The fact he is known personally to every government official is remarkable.

However, when you know this mysterious man, a man with a big smile, big heart and a deep wallet, you have to take a step back. The fact he wanted to invite Dr. Mohamed Waheed, Abdul Sattar Yousuf, Dr. Abdul Samad, Dr. Azeez, Dr. Razee, Abdul Hameed A Hakeem, Gasim Ibrahim, Rilwan Shareef, Dr. Munnawar, Mohamed Shihab, Adam Hassan, Abdulla Saeed, Ali Abdulla, Dr. Muhusin, Dr. Shaugee, Dr. Asim, Dr. Saeed, Dr. Hameed, Dr. Hameed Dr. Fathin Hameed Aamal/Jameela/Mausooma/FM Didi and other western educated and respectable teachers, businessmen and knowledgeable people gives me the comfort that he was cut off by Gayyoom before he was able to implement his plans.

According to my father who was very involved with him, his plans calls for one job for one minister and no chairmanships of government corporations. His policy to make basic services affordable, the government officials more accountable and responsible is what is lacking in the current regime.

MLD was formed by a large group of people consisting of grass root workers with the blessing of some senior cabinet ministers even in the current regime. Like some members wrote to this forum, it was a long-term plan, but was refrained from certain groups to avoid problems to their senior leaders.

According to my Dad, Saadiq is still very much around and in touch with key members of MLD. He is working with various western governments including several key members of the US Congress and he is getting good support for his party.

What I disagree with him and my Dad is that his plans to elect his supporters to Parliament or to 'buy' any elected member (according to my Dad, Saadiq claims there is a price for every member no matter who he is) was not feasible.

He should increase his efforts to convince western governments, neighbouring countries to stop Gayyoom and his cronies to travel and to lock them down in their shell and face the barrage of ????? to force them down. Commonwealth and EU had stopped Mugabe and his cronies to move out of Harare and had closed their bank accounts. I hope MLD will do the same very soon and stop the pundits who are calling Saadiq wrong for keeping his dreams away from few.

Insider
London, UK - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 01:27:20 (MDT)

I am beginning to think that MLD does not exist as an organisation at all. It might have been devised and planned some decades ago, but today it seem to exist only as some fancy notion.

I also call on MLD to come out into the open if they "EXIST".

Ibri
Male', Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 00:34:23 (MDT)

I will gladly return to work with a reformer than to the current government. Once problem is that when people who return after studying abroad with visions to develop Maldives, are confined to a small corner of the office till he forgets what he learnt from the expensive government funded course.

There are really reliable and potential people in the the Education sector, Health Sector, Aviation Sector, Tourism Sector, Public affairs sector.....and believe it or not in the Police who wants programs to be run in line with the Public. But what to do even if they are given the go ahead from the superiors they are halted from the top of the TOP as they (MINISTERS) think things are done with political motivations when public is involved.... Such dirty minds, any way they can have fun as much as they like as they won't last long.

Sappe find out the people in the Police who are opting for a change and let their view be seen by the public... I think it will make a PR to uplift their motivation for a change....

Beybe
Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 00:33:30 (MDT)

I wonder why are all the members of the Hameed's clan is getting top jobs. AS we see one is a minister another is a prominent lawyer another is in the Presidents' office and another is in the Defence Ministry holding a top job. It's getting so sick. I will return to Male' with my family as there is a change in winds in scandals in the government.

I think the government should be more responsible in dealing with Ministerial responsibilities and make the Ministers more accountable of what happens in their respective ministries. As we have all heard is what Minister Aneesa bluntly stated that the family of the man who died under a suspicious condition was not informed due to the fact that it was midnight. I personally have seen when people from Addu and Haa Alif were informed in the still of the night of their loved ones dying and the next day chartering Island Aviation to bring the family to pay their last respects. These people were also ordinary Maldivians. Why is it in this case the government acted in such a way. There is a morgue in Male' that can hold at least 3 people in Galolhu Cemetry. I think they could have put the body their for a day or two till the parents of the man claimed or saw the body to pay their last respects according to Muslim customs.

Beybe
Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 00:20:42 (MDT)

THIS IS A CALL BY MANY PEOPLE TO SAADIQ; TO COME OUT INTO THE PUBLIC AND MAKE HIS INTENTIONS KNOWN IF HE WANTS ANY SUPPORT FROM THE PEOPLE. MLD SHOULD HAVE A WEBSITE AS WELL AND WAYS FOR THE PUBLIC TO BE MEMBERS. I AGREE WITH 'ABDUL KAREEM' ON THIS FORUM WHEN HE CALLS FOR SAADIQ TO COME OUT TO THE PUBLIC. OTHERWISE WE WILL NOT SUPPORT YOU BECAUSE WE CANNOT SUPPORT A PAST GHOST OR A HAS-BEEN OR SOMEBODY WHO HAS NOTHING TO OFFER TODAY, IN PERSON.

Ismail Wajdhee
Male', Maldives - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 00:14:47 (MDT)

Sappe. This is another wonderful piece of work. We appreciate your innovation to get the feelings of the average person. These results shows the frustration of our people.

Your creativity to get these stuff out of Maldives is really marvellous. Thank you.

Mode
Perth, Australia - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 23:55:10 (MDT)

It is the policy of this government not to create jobs in the islands and to keep them in such desperate condition. If they are affluent you can't expect those "services" to the visiting dignitaries.

I am surprised why Saadiq's plan to create 2500 jobs (IN MLD's first 6 months) in the islands is not available for the readers to see. It has been circulating with many other papers among very (senior) people. 2 staff who had access to the stored computers at NSS have been arrested. However, the rumour now is that it was leaked by agents of Isthafa to prove that without him, the place is not safe. The fact that many people in the Maldives support Saadiq is evidence his work had reached to every atoll and island.

Unless Gayyoom reduce his expenses there is no money left to create other jobs in the islands. We have to stop those abuses first.

Jameela
Male, Maldives - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 23:46:43 (MDT)

One of Maumoon's way of creating jobs (based on what we have observed) is introducing unnecessary positions in offices of Male’ while it is the islanders who are suffering most from lack of jobs. Instead he could have created real jobs in these island. In the Rashu Office they may have a Kathib, Katheeb and a Masakath. That’s it. They depend on the populations of the island for all the work whether it is developmental or island maintenance. But can't he create jobs along that line? Have you ever hard of modern village/city maintenance techniques and machinery that could help? That will require fairly literate people who can operate, drive these machines to clean up the place. Is it only in male’ that they have municipality and Hulhumale’ that has proper planning, job creation, increasing business opportunities, etc.

We will never forgive you for taking us as a Burden and not as real citizens of Maldives. The excuse you always have is we are a dispersed island nation and it is difficult to provide services for 200 islands. Is it? Could you tell us how much you spend on an islander and how much you spend on people in Male’ per head, to provide basic services? Of course you cant. That is State Secrets. Right? If you even spent the money you waste on unnecessary expenses (like upgrading Aarah, money for Sammarey to have fun parties in islands, money for ministers to visit islands to have fun, ) you could help us a lot in making a difference in our lives in the right direction.

Note: Often Minsters visit changes nothing because most crucial bad policies remain unchanged- most of their time is spent to have fun and chase Island girls and to have extra marital affairs. Sappey if you try, you will get real stories on how these people behave in islands including, Atoll Chief's and Katheeb's that is more dramatic and interesting than a Nahula movie. Often Katheeb's' unwritten job description include finding nice girls and boys in islands for the big wigs to have fun. These activities are carried out very creatively. They have mastered the art of that quite well. In return Katheeb/Atoll Chief can remain in their jobs and will get their blessing and other 'opportunities'.

Hawwa
Island - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 20:52:52 (MDT)

I think the time is up for Saadiq to come out and tell the people his good intentions. Rumours in town (referring to his papers) are that he was planning to invite well known Maldivians to play vital roles in MLD's interim government.

I wonder whether Sappe could get hold of these papers leaked from NSS. Gayyoom, I am told is wild, angry and mad as to how it reached DO, and out to all the people. Sappe, you are really marvellous. My hats off to you.

Hussain Mohamed
Male, Maldives - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 18:54:22 (MDT)

My wife got a call few days ago from a girl claiming to be from a political group and asked whether she was aware of Sappe/Anni/Latheef/Sodiq and things of political nature.
I hope your activities will not jeopardise our lives here, as we have little or no choice but to live here.

Mansoor
Male, Maldives - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 18:03:19 (MDT)

That could have been for the poll that was conducted and now published in our site. It is important that people who call to conduct these polls explain exactly what they are doing so as not to scare the public. - Ed.

Saadiq's grand vision was locked up in his office, then it was in an NSS store room. Why did'nt he make it available to the people earlier on, he should have made more efforts to talk to the grass root and not the vilified cronies of Gayyoom. That is his failure, that is the reason why we have not benefited from the GRAND DP.

I call upon Saadiq to exploit those cronies, like Fathuhulla, Dr. Latheef, Yameen and others who had a BALL with him in Bangkok.

Does anyone have any idea where he is, what he is doing? If he was following up on the events of Maldives, should he not be available somewhere so people can talk to him or contact him.

MLD does not exist as a party and that is a fact. Until they declare that as a Party, it will only be seen as a GRAND VISION.

Saadiq associated with the wrong people - that is why it has taken 18 years for us all to get a glimpse of it and that is only us with internet access (MLD was supposed to have been formed in 1986).

Has anyone wondered about that? I certainly will not support Saadiq to be our next President. The GRAND VISION should have been put to the people not to those who had lost touch with people.

Abdul Kareem
Male, Maldives - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 15:19:27 (MDT)

I hear of rumours that someone is calling people in the islands asking about their opinions. Is Gayyoom using his new official spokesperson to check the views of the people?

Nazim
Perth, Australia - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 10:36:21 (MDT)

According to reliable sources, Gayyoom personally do visit your site and look all these comments. DO has now become the equivalent of Hindustan Times reportedly read by all Indian politicians before they start their day.

If he continues to read, he will soon learn the frustration of his people. Sappe please continue with your work, we will soon see some changes.

I cannot congratulate you more for bringing this Saadiq's DP out. Today Gayyoom cannot trust anyone including his closest aides who has one connection or another with Saadiq.

When Saadiq was able to manipulate his employees from Nepal and their recruiting agents to select people who were willing to assist his work, I am afraid the type of information he must be holding.

Gayyoom's days are numbered now.

Another Observer
Male, Maldives - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 10:31:00 (MDT)

Hello 'Vote'.

If we look for someone who meets your requirements, that rules out everyone in the Kaaminee Party including all at Hameedhu Family. Thanks for your criteria.

Dhamaa Kadaa
Maldives - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 07:08:01 (MDT)

Why aren’t parliamentary candidates holding social meetings openly to let us know about their policies and what are they going to do for us? We also can tell them what we want easily that way. It is humanly impossible and costly for you all to visit each and every house. Our laws do not prohibit any of these. Or does it?

Is that kind of gathering only allowed to a person named Maumoon? Who knows, our constitution may have such a clause and you all may have to change your names to become an MP.

Let see your personal websites. If the election commission has a fancy rule prohibiting any of these, they are violating the law and need to be charged accordingly. Come-on guys/gals; we’re waiting eagerly to hear your voices. Speak up and let’s meet and discuss openly. Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease. Lets see whether Gayyoom and his loyalists in NSS will put all of us in prison for that.

Sappey could you helps us in giving a brief profiles of candidates; strengths weakness and what people worked under them has to say about them. And perhaps you can conduct a poll to see which candidates are popular. I know it will be a tough task collecting info on all candidates in such a short time. But we don’t have any other person who would even listen to such a request. We have only you to get real information we need. You are our freedom fighter luckily not in prison.

Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeese
Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 23:30:02 (MDT)

Yameen ge Bafo, you can be excused for being in fear of Yameen. Anyway do not assume that anyone with a suggestion is supporting this person or that person. We also support good ideas and anyone who can come up with it and I think we want to give such people a chance to lead the country. But first criteria to qualify is that the person should not have our blood on his hands, nor should they have a record of plundering public funds and corruption, mismanagement. If those criteria's are satisfied my vote is for an economist or a successful business men.

Vote
Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 22:58:44 (MDT)

Under Maumoon's law (which was forced onto our throats using torture techniques to threaten then parliament members) Luthufee, Ahamadi, Nisreen, Shaikh Fareedh, Naushaadh are criminals and therefore suffering in his hell, I mean his prison.

But we call them freedom fighters who followed the foot steps of heroes like Muhammed Thakurufaan. Their crime is exposing corruption and protesting against injustices. Don’t waste your precious time and money to convince us otherwise. We are not fools. And to those freedom fighters we want to tell you we are with you and are indebt to you all.

I apologies for all the people not mentioned but are suffering in this regimes’ Hell directly and indirectly, for protesting against corruption and talking on behalf of our rights.

For Freedom Fighters
Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 22:38:27 (MDT)

Ekuveri Sappe ah. Salaam.

Ismail Saadigu dhivehinge kurieruvumah liyyuvi Development Plan ge dhivehi tharujama eh alhugandu menah fenaanegotheh veytho dhenneveemeve.

Mi liyun thi website gai jessevumun varah gina bayaku e kiyaa hithun edheythee mivaahaka dhennevemeve. E liymakee thankolheh dhigu liyumakah vaathee ekamah waguthu beynun vaane kan alhuganduves ebbasvameve. Veema effen naane thaareeheh vidhaalhuvedhevvun edhen.

Sappe thikuravva masaiykathah alhugandumen varah maruhabaa kiyaa ufaakurameve. Mirashuge varah gina bayaku eki goiygothah thi website gaa hunna mauloomaath hoadhumah masaiykaiy kure eve.

Ismail Saadig akee mirashuge eki kulhivaru kulhey jamiyya thakashaa thafaathu ekigoiy gothah varah gina bayakah ehee therivefavai beyfulheh kamun, efadha liyumeh kiyaa lumah varah gina bayaku edhi edhi thibi vaahaka dhenneveemeve.

S Feydhoo Anhenun Kuriaruvaa Committee member
Feydhoo, Seenu Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 22:18:52 (MDT)

Thank your for your kind words and support. We are currently working on the translation, but as you said it is a very long document and it will take time. We guarantee you that one way or the other, DO or somebody else will provide the Maldivian people with a translation as soon as possible. - Ed.

I worked at TVM during the mid nineties and after seeing all these interesting comments from many other admirers of DO and MLD, I thought of writing something I came across about Saadiq.

During the mid 90s, Saadiq had a school fair at Iskandar and invited Dr. Latheef to inaugurate it. Dr. Latheef was unprepared for a speech so he just nimbled through, but Saadiq gave a very interesting speech in which he outlined what he is going to contribute to the teachers, schools and to the education development of the country. So we recorded the entire speech and was about to air it with a initial coverage at prime time news at 8PM.

Later in the day, I got a call from PO office to verify about the speech and after few minutes, I was asked to cancel the entire program. I also got a call few minutes thereafter from the Minister, who told us not show even Saadiq's face, while covering Dr. Latheef's visit to Iskandar.

After reading the comments of other readers, I am more than confident now that Saadiq was arrested and tortured because of his political views and not for anything else.

I was puzzled as to why President's Office & Minister Sammarey were so adamant not to show his face on public TV. Sappe, you have proven me wrong. Sodiq was THE real threat to Gayyoom.

TVM
Male, Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 19:25:58 (MDT)

Would it possible to acquire a copy of the said speech in any form (video or audio)? If not is it possible to find a written transcript of his speech? If so please forward it to us. - Ed.

After reviewing an "Econimical propects for Maldives", a very detailed report (costing $179,000) submitted by Ismail Saadiq, Hon. Yameen requested Ismail to find potential investors to reclaim the land in Hulhule.

I was asked by Ismail to travel with him to Brunei where a large dredging project was conducted by the Danes. I also travelled with him to Copenhagen and met several companies who offered various proposals. Ismail asked them to send those proposal to FISB Maldives and arranged their initial travel to the Maldives.

During this period, Ismail also offered Yameen to start a bunkering service based from Funadhoo, a cement bagging plant, a (cooking) Gas distribution plant, and production of corrugated sheets in the Maldives.

Ismail also invited Directors of Rainbow to join these projects and Rainbow offered 30% of their shares to him at cost price and in return for a $400,000 credit line.

When we were in Denmark, Ismail also lobbied to get funds for Fua Mulak port project and as requested by Fua Mulak leadership lobbied with the Danes not to accept the alternative proposals pushed by Gayyoom. Finally Gayyoom gave in when the Danish government refused to accept Gayyoom's proposal.

My point here is all what Yameen has done was initiated and created by Ismail. What has Yameen done? Zilch.

I will always remember Ismail Saadiq as the founding father of Hulhumale project. The people of Fua Mulak is totally behind Ismail Saadiq.

Father of Hulhumale
Male, Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 16:58:48 (MDT)

I just had a glimpse of the Economic plan composed by Saadiq. I am thrilled and excited to see his genuine support to NGO's and his commitment to collect $1 from each tourist to pay for our work to assist the disabled and the under privileged in our society.

I know they don't teach this stuff in Al Azhar. We will support and your plans to give something back to these poor families who are forced to undertake all the hardship and expenses to care for our brothers and sisters.

Those families and their caregivers support you to become our next President.

NGO
Male, Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 13:12:26 (MDT)

I was reading about the plane crash in the Male' international airport and could not help but wonder why there wasn't any emergency medical service??

I was shocked to learn from my friends in Maldives that the international airport is without emergency health facilities and without a functioning ambulance and about how the main Hospital in Male' was not informed about the accident until very late...

Chris Logan
Dallas, TX USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 12:39:16 (MDT)

It is indeed a very sorry state of affairs. - Ed.

Sappe', Thank you for being unbiased in your coverage of the Maldivian political fiasco.

All parties (MLD, MDP and MNC) should be given a fair chance to argue their case in front of the people, who will judge them accordingly.

Thank you again!!!

MNC Member
Male', Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 10:55:59 (MDT)

Thank you for believing in the work we do. We will continue to work to defeat Gayyoom eventually in time and give the country back to its people. - Ed

One of the biggest obstacles we have in the Maldives is to find a credible opposition leader. We have many educated and wonderful people with leadership qualities, but no one was willing to face it up front.

Sappe, you have broken this weak link and have proven to the people that Gayyoom was more scared of Saadiq than anyone else. His access to resources and powerful people both at home and abroad is what Gayyoom fear most.

His ability to have access to every "desk" in the government including Gayyoom's closest and most trusted people was incomprehensible. Saadiq survived his prisons, torture and several assassination attempts.

At last we have a name and a face now. It is time for the people to join and rally behind him.

M. Haleem
Male, Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 10:45:48 (MDT)

It seems everybody else but Gayyoom (including MNC) is interested in helping the Maldives people. Thank you to Dhivehi Observer for being unbiased in your coverage.

Thank you!!

Ahmed
Male', Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 10:29:25 (MDT)

I think we should demand Saadiq to bring out his papers instead of some of his supporters having access to them. He should trust Dhivehi Observer and get this out.

I was just shown a copy of his economical policy, which was signed on, by Mr. Nair (former Chairman/Governor of Monetary Authority of Singapore and Chairman of Singapore Airlines) and current WTO Chairman Mr. Supachai (Former finance and deputy prime minister of Thailand).

I think Saadiq has the potential to change our economy to benefit the people. He has managed a business empire of 2 billion dollars (refer to Lloyds of London not Haveeru) and successfully run a business in Maldives. If these policies were implemented the people are going to support him.

The best politician is a person who seeks advice (not from cronies) and makes good judgment. Saadiq has proven once again he has the courage and the ability to do that.

No wonder, Maumoon felt he was a threat, because his policies will stop this abuse (One million rufiyaa monthly electric bill of Theemuge and 12.5 million rufiyaa spent on Aarah - Gayyoom's presidential retreat resort). His policy to change Aarah to an executive resort and pay a million dollars to the welfare of teachers is totally unimaginable.

In free societies and forums (like this) people will criticize Saadiq, but I am confident he would overcome with calm and respect.

We love you and wait for a day you give the people the power and spend their money wisely.

Faheem
Singapore - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 08:00:47 (MDT)

If its possible, please send us Saadiq's economical policy and we will publish it for our readers. - Ed.

Someone with economics background for president? Say it. You want Yameen to become the next President. No way. We will never allow him to be our next President.

Yameen ge Bafo
Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 04:43:31 (MDT)

The anti-reform, sites proclaim that Saadiq is only interested in power and he fled the country with peoples money.

Could you also tell us with whose money Mr. Ilyas fled with and how he swallowed public funds and why he is not in prison now. Could you tell us why Mr Gayyoom would turn to vote rigging, intimidation, and torture tactics to hold to power at any cost? Even when time has proved that he is unable to govern a country let alone lead it to a prosperous future. Could you also tell us how President uses his 80millon dollar Theemuge budget.

Of course all this money is going to him through legal means. But is it fair and just for one person and his wife? Does the public have to take care of married children and the extended family of the president?

His twisted logic; which is using public money to assist relatives and friends to show how kind a person he is – is amazing. The pro-regime people are one appropriate bunch to talk about corruption and illegal dealings. Have you ever heard of a Dhivehi saying ‘Hay (7) gudhu onna meehaa ehgudhu onna meehaaah Gudho Gudho govaaneye’.

First wash your dirty laundry and get credibility before you talk in front of the public. We don't trust thieves and killers to tell the truth.

Gudhu
Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 03:49:32 (MDT)

'Manmohan Singh, the gentlemanly Oxford-educated economist who saved India from economic collapse in 1991 and began the liberalization of its economy, has been appointed the country's next prime minister, ending a week of high political drama'. http://www.nytimes.com/2004/05/20/international/asia/20indi.html

Perhaps we also need someone with a good economics background as president or vice president who could make the the country's economic policy. We also have to keep in mind that no policy is going to succeed without us eradicating the epidemics of corruption from our system. this should be the priority of any government to come.

Suggestion
Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 02:47:14 (MDT)

Moosa Latheef article is good. Parliament members does not deserve the perks and compensation entitled with the job. The only thing they do is use our money and have fun and do nothing to help us. We don't pay you to shut-up. We pay you to talk and defend our rights. If you can't do that please resign and give the job to people who is not afraid to talk on behalf of us.

Disgusted
Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 02:29:42 (MDT)

25 years of lies, how can we believe his words anymore.

Ahmad Amjad
Seenu, Addu Maldives - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 00:34:00 (MDT)

Hello Sappe, please make sure Aneesa pays for the death of Ali Mahir. We pay Aneesa over a million rufiyaa every year in salary alone to look after the mentally retarded. Instead she kills them. And nobody asks her any questions! What kind of a government do we have?

Ali
London, UK - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 23:22:19 (MDT)

Check this out! In the photo section of the PO web site there is a pic of His Holiness Gay'yoom visiting a patient who got injured in the aircraft crash. Now look at the photo section of Haveeru Online. The same guy is seen walking in the reception area of IGMH shaking others hands!!!!!

Now was he asked to lie in bed and pretend he is injured so that His Holiness could say a prayer to him?

Loa bodu Meehaa
Calcutta, India - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 20:22:40 (MDT)

I fully agree with Ali, but you are calling upon the people to make the ultimate sacrifice, which is what is needed.

Unfortunately few like Saadiq, Naushad & Umar Jamal have seen the real torture chambers of this regime. Therefore it is easy for them to relay their feelings, but it is hard for the rest of us to comprehend what it is like in Dhoonidhoo.

We have heard all these stories numerous times, but like Saadiq's MLD we need a concrete and a positive platform so the people are aware there is a real alternative. Many of you have wasted your time, with no plans, making it easy for Gayyoom to label all the opposition as troublemakers, traitors, crooks, and Christians.

I must congratulate Dhivehi Observer and Sappe in particular, for their spy network to put this DP into public view. I must confess that many of us have read them and passed on to almost all we know. This has changed the mindset of the people and Gayyoom has started his damage control.

Now his focus will be to assassinate Saadiq and to play MDP against the MLD. I hope he won't offer another resort to Latheef or Anni (including their families and friends) this was his tool to fool the people who had initiated any opposition.

While it is true Gayyoom cannot arrest 50,000 people, but the people are daily witnessing what he did to the people who were incarcerated at Maafushi under his military command. There is no guarantee he won't do it again.

My only advice is for all of you to get together and work under one DP.

Mohamed Saleem
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 20:08:27 (MDT)

I would like to know more about Mr. Saadiq

Ammadey
Addu Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 19:51:44 (MDT)

Ali Hasan's list of politicians is very interesting! "Latheef, Anni, Mausoom, Naseer, Kuda Sappey, Saadiq, Umar Jamal, Nazeer Jamal, Nazim, Naushad, Dr. Waheed" Some of the people in this list are criminals and thief's with low moral values. Their commitment to an honourable cause has to be applaudable but do not try to associate Dr Waheed or Sappey with Umar Jamal, GoGo or Naushad. Dr Waheed and Sappey are in a different league altogether. GoGo and Naushad can never step into that league.

Jamal K.
Istanbul, Turkey - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 19:32:47 (MDT)

Kind Sir, a politician can only be judged by their policies. Some of the people that you call criminals were charged of crimes fabricated and publicised by the Gayyoom regime. The difference between the charges against Saadiq and the people you call criminals are Saadiq's vision was written down, hence readily available to everybody if known about, the others only had their words, it was essential for Gayyoom to publicise their crimes to discredit them as people.

Even their personal lives are not the measure that you should judge them on. You should judge them by the high moral stand they have taken, and the policies they present for change. Everybody needs to be given a chance to prove themselves in front of the people they represent. And now these people you call criminals are doing their part.

An American president once said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but ask what you can do for your country. - Ed.

Hi Saadiq!

Maldivian women still loves you. We will support you in your endeavours. You can count on us.

Your regular contribution to the women's' causes are appreciated.

Loabi
Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 16:40:01 (MDT)

Hon. Aneesa is a by-product of Anbaree who has presented a very clear image. He has managed to take out Isthafa who was closer to Gayyoom than himself. Now he has brought a pawn. Soon you will see the cruelty of this man.

Nurse
Auckland, NZ - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 16:29:48 (MDT)

We think MDP and Saadiq must find some middle ground to work together. Even in bigger democracies, parties with opposite views, must adjust their platforms to work for the common good.

I have not known Saadiq much, except for very few short meetings with him. If we allow his long term plans to bear fruit, Gayyoom will remain in power for another 25 years.

I support the more radical views of MDP. I wonder whether both leadership could find some middle ground.

Thinadhu Zuvanunge Jamiyya
Thinadu, GD Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 15:07:11 (MDT)

I cannot agree with Saadiq. How can he preach to let Maumoon get away with all this. I lost my brother in Maafushi uprising and I won't forgive him ever. Unless we get justice we are not going to stop.

It might take another 10 years or more, (who cares) but we shall not allow Maumoon to get away scott free.

Saadiq, must change his policy. He doesn't feel the pain I am going through. You cannot compromise with a murderer. I will support MDP.

Rahuma
KL, Malaysia - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 13:29:21 (MDT)

Finally Gayyoom is building is own grave. I wonder whether Gayyoom is aware that Hala Hameed's husband is Sodiq's best friend. It is beyond rumours in town, that Sodiq was instrumental to bring them together. Nasr and Sama of Nasreena's brother Abbas is another clear example.

Saadiq must be laughing to find his connections everywhere (both Kaamineege and Endherimaage). Is Gayyoom insane?

Vote for Saadiq as President! He knows this game!

Lucky Star
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 13:16:37 (MDT)

From all what I have seen and heard, I think Saadiq makes sense. Anger and hatred won't bring any solution. His policy of reconciliation and reparation is the choice for a better Maldives. We do not have to go back to the first few years of Gayyoom and bring the old regime and embarrass them.

As we all know, thousands of people (including Saadiq himself and his family) have been severely affected by the actions of Gayyoom. If we are to get over the past and build national unity and reconciliation, we must make sure that people who suffered gross human rights abuses are acknowledged by providing them with reparation. These measures cannot bring back the dead, or adequately compensate for pain and suffering, but they can improve the quality of life for victims of gross human rights violations and/or their dependants.

I support Saadiq for President.

Zadey
Ahmediyya School, - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 12:55:17 (MDT)

I would like to bring following things to the attention of the readers, about the death of the young man while in the Government care in Guraidhoo Mental Hospital.

1. In Maldives, specially in the rural islands, we have a tradition of delaying the burial until sunrise (specially we don't burry people during mid-night hours).

2. His parents were not informed of his burial (apparently, his parents refused to look after him earlier). But there could be no justification for this crime against Humanity. Minister Aneesa told Haveeru that his parents were not informed because "it was midnight and because they had
refused to look after him earlier. "

3. At first Minister Aneesa told Haveeru that "He WAS NOT mentally ill, but he was there because his parents refused to look after him when he was released from the facility earlier after treatment". But when asked whether the patients could go out of the premises of the facility (he was apparently at sea when he was brought back to the facility) Ms. Aneesa told that "security would be tight there, and they cannot go out but A MAD GUY may do anything."

Therefore I think that there is something wrong here.

cover up
Guraidhoo, Male Atoll Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 12:30:53 (MDT)

I think I agree with MLD/Saadiq. There is no point of revenge. In a country of 280,000 people, we have had enough of problems. After I read his paper on political reform, I think we are not going to achieve anything by calling for Gayyoom's blood.

By doing this the callers are making Gayyoom to remain in power by hook or by crook as he knows too well the alternative to Theemuge is HELL.

I think I would prefer Saadiq's vision of a nation of reconciliation and healing. We should leave the past and make the best of the present.

MLD fan
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 11:16:06 (MDT)

Without the help of MLD the September massacre would have never got the attention of the world. 113 countries carried the news. All US major networks carried the news on TV/Radio and on their websites. over 200 newspapers carried subsequent stories for three days.

Reuters/AP/BBC/CNN/ABC/FOX/NBC/Al JAZEERA all covered the news. Even US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asian Affairs, Ms Christina Rocca, told Gayyoom her governments concerns about Human Right's activities in the Maldives. Despite Gayyoom's explanation, according to senior state department officials, she told Gayyoom that she would like to see more transparency and respect to the rights of the people.

Unfortunately MLD operates under a very different set of rules because their members consist of very senior officials.

Katheeb
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 11:06:50 (MDT)

Had we all done our bit for our country, our people will not be suffering like they are today. If only those who visit this site and read the material can begin to understand how their lives are totally designed by a crook and his family and begin to think hard how to be the architect of their own life, then and only then can we succeed in this work.

Let us all together, stand as one, united in opposition, united in our ambition to get our rights back for good. There is no need to slag, a little bit of intelligence and guts is all we need.

Let us all stop signing with funny names and stop hiding behind masks. There is no other way, but unity and love for the country, that can bring about the reforms that we all want.

Be true to yourselves and face up to the task of restoring the basic principles of life; freedom and liberty.

It is not with parliament, or political parties that we can do this. MDP and MLD as well as the MNC are just names, not formidable parties in opposition; they are not allowed to be registered in Maldives, people cannot affiliate to any of these parties as it is seen not only to be illegal but against Islam too, party membership is done in underground; the so called future leaders of the nation are still waiting to see what happens next; it is chaos in and out.

Latheef, Anni, Mausoon, Naseer, Kuda Sappey, Saadiq, Umar Jamal, Nazeer Jamal, Nazim, Naushad, Dr. Waheed - they are not mad, they are not Christians but people who have shown the strength to stand against Gayyoom, who has no mercy, no compassion. People with principles and courage.

So, here I say, let us decide on a date, together we will all come out of our closet and do our bit for the country; to do that we must all become real people not mere email addresses! Let us set a date to sign here with our own names, address and telephone number; Gayyoom might try to take us in, but how long can he keep us in, can he arrest 5000 people, and his actions will be monitored by the rest of the world?, so he cannot do that... let us organise an internet protest.. let us tell him to go to where he belongs... HELL!

Do we want our children to grow up in these restricted environment? It is not our country, it is our children's country too, it is there life too! So, anyone!?!

Ali Hassan
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 07:53:20 (MDT)

Dhivehi Observer is humbled by your wise words. We all need to become flesh and blood people before this can happen, not binary numbers on a machine. Until we are brave enough to stand up and come out in the open peacefully and ask for what we want or we wont get it. There is an old Maldivian saying "nuroa dhariyaka, kiru nulibeyne", we need more leadership in our country. - Ed.

Yeah well, some people might complain about certain 'disgusted students', but where were the real politicians when they were needed? Where was Saadiq? He was safe in USA during September's massacre last year. Why didn't he say something? He never even publicly condoned the actions of Gayyoom. What is he waiting for, before he speaks directly to the people?

Was it not the disgusted students, that brought the problem out to light? Didn't they revitalise the revolution all over again?

The way I see it, it is still a student revolution. It's their actions and the things they have set in motion that is even bringing out 'politicians' like Saadiq out even.

I believe that the efforts of these so called 'disgusted students' should be recognised and appreciated.

Its all part of a bigger process, the process of democratising the Maldives and getting rid of Gayyoom and bringing him to justice. Everybody is playing a part. And gratitude should go to them all.

MDP raised the issue in the international community. They attempted to put pressure on Gayyoom by the international community. Thank you.

Sandhaanu, Dhivehi Observer, Maldives Culture, Fas Sangu these guys continued to empower the people by providing the necessary information's to get the support and the backing of the people. Your work has slowly brought out a few good leaders out of a dying nation. And for your continuous and tireless efforts, thank you.

And the politicians, Saadiq, Latheef, Anni, and many others that are doing their part in silence or in open, even bringing out the better human side out of people like Munavvar and Zaki. Thank you for the work you have been continuously doing in your own way, to help the people out of a very drastic situation. You work is greatly appreciated.

Now the issue on hand is get this process home to Maldives. Try and achieve a way to operate among the people. And finally achieve multiparty system and have fair elections.

Maybe this time we can get rid of Gayyoom. This time the momentum feels just right. We must all play our part in this revolution. It is time to publicly Say NO to Gayyoom. Tell him we will not stand for this. He has to be removed one way or the other. Peaceful solutions need to be found before this escalates into violence.

With MLD's DP the people know what they can have. With the efforts of DO, MC, Sandhaanu, Fas Sangu, and other people we know about the crimes of the governing elite. We know about the missed opportunities and the reasons why we are poor today. I for one am getting angrier by the day. I am sure many of your readers would be feeling the same. the people are becoming restless. The truth is out, it is too late for Gayyoom to talk about reform. He must go, one way or the other, peacefully or violently. His choice, the ball is in his court now.

If it's too late, violence might not be avoidable.

Ibrahim Hameed
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 06:53:20 (MDT)

Did anybody notice how when Dhivehi Observer's site became more popular with their easy to use interface, themaldivian.com came out with a new site, and now Haveeru are designing a new site. The regime guys think its how the site looks that attracting more readers and hence more followers.

To them I say it is the content and the material that makes the difference. That is why Dhivehi Observer will be better than those. That is why DO has more online readers than them.

Regime Sux
Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 07:01:04 (MDT)

Minister Aneesa finds it so bloody convenient to say burying the dead without informing their parents or next of kin is the norm for mentally retarded (sic) patients in the Maldives. I wonder how she would react if one of her loved ones is buried without informing her. Especially if that person dies in suspicious circumstances. These people have no respect for the dead at all.

Asthu.
CMB, Sri Lanka - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 06:52:55 (MDT)

Please do not refer to patients that needs 'care' to as retarded or any other words that are offensive, that diminishes their capacity as humans. - Ed.

Congrats Hala. Make sure you have your way at PO. We must get rid of the Endherimaage Party soon.

Kamineegey Party
Ma/ Male', Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 06:25:12 (MDT)

After reading some of the comments in this forum, I am not surprised at all the support of MLD and it's contribution to the football clubs and other grass root organizations.

His long term approach is more feasible than adhoc statements from disgusted students. We look forward to read more details of his policies (like the DP) instead of flashing headlines.

Maldivian Youth and the disgruntled unemployed would flock in to MLD. Sodiq my vote is yours.

Football fan
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 06:12:40 (MDT)

I fully agree that a reconciliation approach is the best. You cannot undo all what Gayyoom did in 25 years, no matter how bad they are. I support MLD and it's position to use the experience of the current regime, but move the rotten ones and bring in fresh hands.

I still agree with Saadiq that Gayyoom could still play a constructive role similar like Lee Kwang Yu of Singapore.

Reformist
Male, Maldives - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 06:04:22 (MDT)

Just to join the rest of the supporter in the atoll and congratulate Mr. Saadiq for remembering us. We are relieved now to see that you in fact tried your best. Only few Maldivians have crossed this path.

Your support to teachers will reciprocate in votes. We will remain your supporters. Let us make this happen!

Eydhafushi Zuvaanun
Baa Atoll, Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 22:30:54 (MDT)

I knew that a Maldivian was in Camp X-ray long before the September uprising. Those days some of the foreign media reported that Maldives had connections with Al Qaeda. And it was like a raging fire to get anyone linked with the group or met a person in the organisation. Maybe that was the reason that the government did not publicise the news. We have to see whether the parents of the detainee was informed by the Maldivian government.

As far as I know the Americans informed the Maldivian government in 2003 of a meeting with the detainee and the two lucky people from the NSS were Lt Col. Ibrahim Latheef and Lt. Faseeh who went to US to meet him. I would like the two officers to be interviewed by Dhivehi Observer regarding the meeting. Sappe I know you can do something !!

Beybe
Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 20:30:15 (MDT)

To the chairman of human rights commission of Maldives:

Want to thank you for trying to free a Maldivian from tyranny of US. My Question is when are going to put such efforts to free us from tyranny of current regime?

Thanks.

Citizens of Maldives
Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 20:07:53 (MDT)

What is MLD's position about bringing Gayyoom and his cronies to justice? Is he going to walk free?

How come MLD does not offer its membership to the politically minded people of the public?

I hear MLD is made of a lot of people who are in high ranking positions of the Gayyoom government. These people are friends of Gayyoom and his cronies and if MLD came to power Gayyoom is simply going to WALK free. Is this true?

Myself and a lot of friends of mine don't want anybody who cannot/will not provide justice for the past decades of torture and rape of a whole country.

Anything less than Gayyoom's incarceration for the remainder of his natural life is unacceptable. I would have even wished the death penalty on him except I don't believe the right to life can be taken away regardless of who he is. Even if it is the lowest of the low slime buckets like Gayyoom.

About Gayyoom
Male', Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 19:52:12 (MDT)

I think Sodiq should keep away from all this and leave DO to publish his policies. Another website is not necessary. MLD should trust DO for it's independence.

DO has worked hard to keep this site going and they don't have the resources to keep full time staff to compete with MLD.

MLD should look into this seriously!

Student
Birmingham, UK - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 19:54:05 (MDT)

Thank you for your vote of confidence. - Ed.

Let the people choose depending on the situation what's best for them, be it MDP, MLD or anybody. After all democracy is about involving many people/parties so that ultimately the decisions we make would be much better than when we decide alone without the evaluation of pros and cons of policy openly. Existence of more than one party ultimately benefit the people. Each party has their strong points and they both have done commendable work of different kinds.

Undecided
Australia - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 19:39:57 (MDT)

That indeed is our position on the whole affair. We need more exposure from all parties and groups about their policies and plans before the public can make an informed decision. - Ed.

I just want to express my support to Saadiq. I like his idea about our education policies. I think his approach is practical.

He has realized the fact that the Principal in a regional secondary school is as influential in the community like the atoll chief.

I think higher wage for teachers is a good step in the right direction.

Teacher
Male, Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 19:29:54 (MDT)

I cannot speak for Saadiq, But from what I knew of MLD's policy is to have a 2 four years term or one 6 year term (like Korea/Philippines/Sri Lanka). MLD's position WAS to put this into a public referendum. (not like Maumoon's elections). I remember Saadiq pointed out that either way, we have a limit.

We should never allow a leader to remain in power for the sake of creating world records of longevity. We have had enough of 25 years term of Nasir and Maumoon.

I would appreciate if Saadiq himself could answer to this question. This is a very legitimate question to be asked from anyone.

Ammade
Perth, Australia - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 17:39:47 (MDT)

We would like to extend an invitation for you to contact us directly dhivehiobserver@gmail.com for some confidential direct email correspondence if that's possible. - Ed.

Thank you for publishing articles of Saadiq. We made more money last week than the last 3 months due to the frenzy created by this news.

Thank you!

Internet Cafe owner
Male, Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 17:06:33 (MDT)

"COMING SOON
Leaders of tomorrow
who will be the next President of Maldives?
send in your comments by email."

COULD YOU PLEASE PLACE SAADIQ'S FACE UNTIL YOU FIND AN ALTERNATIVE.
CURRENTLY HIS POLICIES ARE FAVOURED BY THE PEOPLE.

Curious
Singapore - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 17:02:19 (MDT)

That is a very good question. I would also like to know the answer to that question.

We don't wont anybody for more than 2 terms. When times change, ideas change so does our needs, fresher ideas are needed, better leaders more capable to handle the changes will always be needed. I don't think we should support anybody who takes that right away from us.

If the answer you give is correct, I for one will change parties.

MDP member
Colombo, Sri Lanka - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 16:49:25 (MDT)

Sappe, we have stopped reading these unsubstantiated allegations, instead would prefer to read factual and objective articles. Your coverage about Saadiq is the best so far. We appreciate your ability to release this to the people of Maldives.

These articles woke up a sleeping giant. A large group of people who had worked for MLD. This is the best assurance for them that their leadership has not abandoned them.

Hanimaadhoo
Haa Dhaal, Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 16:39:51 (MDT)

One last question to MLD before I give my endorsement. I feel this is a make or break situation for MLD or Saadiq. If the answer to this question is not given correctly, then you have just lost your case completely in front of your judge, the people.

What is your position on the number of presidential terms that a single person (including Saadiq himself or whoever else MLD and its members choose) can run for?

I, like many, eagerly await for the answer to the above question. If the answer is satisfactory, you have my vote and many that I know of.

Question
Hithadhoo, Addu Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 16:22:55 (MDT)

I don't think Gayyoom would deliberately release these documents (given the fact that he has managed to keep them away from his people for a decade) to the media and that of Dhivehi Observer. If he did so, is Gayyoom up to some mischief? If so, he has been successful as Saadiq has become the issue and the people had forgotten their daily hardship to survive.

Did Saadiq managed to smuggle his hard disks from the computers while they were in NSS custody?

My biggest question is how did Dhivehi Observer get a copy of MLD's DP? I am told that members of MDP and DO are struggling to get hold of Saadiq, for his support and blessing.

Is Saadiq visiting Canada and mending a broken heart?

Surprise
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 16:04:50 (MDT)

As for the question posed to DO, we cannot give out any (including how, when, where) details of our informants or contributors. It is against our policy and it could possibly endanger their lives. I hope you understand. - Ed

12 years ago I was still in Iskandar. Could you please publish a picture of Saadiq? Preferably one after he left Maldives.

I think Saadiq's arguments of reforming our education system is a very thoughtful and practical policy. I had the opportunity to read it on its entirety, but I am asked by the sender not to reveal it.

I like his call to make "Today's students, tomorrow's Leaders" and his emphasize to make Teachers and Academics to become tomorrow's politicians with the notion that we as teachers teach and have the opportunity to lead them.

This is magnificent stuff.

Aysha
New Zealand - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 15:43:09 (MDT)

We are still waiting for the Dhivehi version of the MLD's DP. Sappe I hope you are working on it.

We appreciate your declaration of your independence from all political parties.

Dhivehi Observer received more popularity during the last 10 days than all the contribution by Maldivesculture.com put together. Your coverage of Saadiq was received well by the people.

Jamy
USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 15:19:26 (MDT)

MLD's website will be operative in few weeks, and the contractors are working hard on it. The whole idea is to give the Maldivians a real deal. An acceptable, reasonable and a workable solution. Not a rewritten version like others would like to claim.

Sappe, we appreciate your (DO's) distance and independence from MDP. You will soon agree and accept that the only alternative is MLD.

The overwhelming support to Saadiq and MLD shows the thirst and hunger of the people for genuine change. MDP has a long way to go.

Admirer
Perth, Australia - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 14:57:38 (MDT)

We would like to extend an invitation for you to contact us directly dhivehiobserver@gmail.com for some confidential direct email correspondence if that's possible. - Ed.

Finally people oriented ideas.

We appreciate it very much, thank you!!

People Power
Male', Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 05:27:48 (MDT)

The newly updated 'about us' page details a quite a shift in policy change for Dhivehi Observer and we like it. Dhivehi Observer's decision to be an institution for freedom of speech is most welcome.

Its good to know that there are still people out there who want to give power and strength to the people. Thank you to Sappe' and other members associated with Dhivehi Observer for the tireless work you do. Please don't stop and we wont stop contributing either. Together we can do this.

We want a system by the people, to the people, serving the people. Dhivehi Observer is taking the correct steps now finally.

Policy change from DO???
Male', Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 05:06:35 (MDT)

Alhugandumen dhivehin Ismail Sodigu ah vanee dharani verivefaa. Sodigu ge masaiykathah alhugadumen ijaaba dheynan. Mifaharuge majlis ah Sodigu party membarun baivaeri vaane kamah ummeedhu kuran. Kulhudhuffushi aai atholhuge anhenunge support libeyne.

Just to let you know that we love you.

Regards
Teachers at Iskandhar School

Kulkhudhufushi Zuvaan Anheneh
Kulhudhufushi, Haa Dhaal Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 01:09:35 (MDT)

Saadiq!

Just to let you know that we love you.

Regards
Teachers at Iskandhar School

Iskandhar
Male, Maldives - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 00:58:41 (MDT)

Sappe, I just saw this.

Proposal to provide universal health care in the Maldives
By. Ismail Saadiq (MLD's Health Plan)

1.1.1
"Crisis is not a word that should be used loosely, but that's the only term that describes the health care situation in the Maldives. Statistics tell the story: The entire population except the President's family lack any sort of medical insurance and those who can afford medical services are experiencing cost increases at IGMH year after year with no end in sight.

1.2.1
What can be done?

If there was a silver bullet solution to this crisis elected officials and the Maldivian people would have embraced it long ago. Nevertheless, the challenge is a complex one and there are as many 'solutions' as there are ill-defined policies.

1.2.2
MLD will propose a health care legislation that adheres to these principles:

1.2.3
All Maldivians should have full access to health care that meets their personal values and financial situation.

1.2.4
Those who pay for health coverage on their own should have the same advantages as those who receive it through their employer.

1.2.5
When health coverage is not affordable, financial assistance must be extended to those in greatest need. The practice for Theemuge officials and selected few in respective government departments to pick and choose the patients who deserve treatment must be stopped.

1.2.6
Employers who offer their workers health benefits must not retain eligibility to determine eligibility and benefit offerings.

1.3.1
MLD will also recommend that Majlis establish several incentives to expand coverage.

Health coverage helps ensure access to care when it is needed, and offers economic security for working families. The private providers can work with the proper incentives and oversight from government. Tax incentives, market stimulation, financial guarantees, and better information all have their place in making more choices available to more people. MLD will continue to work with the Majlis on behalf of all Maldivians to create fairer, more viable access to coverage.

1.3.2 (11 pages more)

Admirer
Perth, Australia - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 00:28:25 (MDT)

Instead of posting bits and pieces of the document, please e-mail us the whole document if you have it and we will publish it for our readers. Nevertheless, thank your for your contribution.

This request goes to all our readers and contributors. An informed public is and empowered public. - Ed.

Why our education system is failing???
by Ismail Saadiq. (MLD's Education Policy)

2.4.1
It is noted that the quality of teacher preparation and the quantity of available teachers are not independent. A traditional interpretation of this statement is that higher preparation standards by limiting access threaten the supply of teachers and the staffing of schools. It would be unfortunate if the projected need for more teachers were to cause an erosion of standards for teacher preparation. This scenario leads towards lower student performance, less job satisfaction, higher teacher attrition, increased public discontent, and further erosion of standards. Easier teacher preparation programs and emergency hiring from India and Sri Lanka are expedient solutions to short term employment needs. However, such expediency may bring about greater long-term problems.

2.4.2
Teachers who are more thoroughly prepared to meet the specific needs of schools may persist longer in their jobs. If this is true, higher retention rates of qualified teachers would result in the establishment of a more stable, satisfied, and highly competent workforce, slowing the revolving employment door at MOE, and reducing the need for emergency hiring from neighbouring countries. An additional, perhaps more important benefit is that better prepared teachers should be more effective in their jobs and assist more students to higher levels of attainment. MLD policy of higher standards and more support may be difficult to achieve in the near term. Public schools will have to be weaned from expedient employment practices, and preparation programs will need to become more rigorous and attentive to local needs. In the longer term MLD policy will benefit students and the teaching profession. MLD will double the wages and benefits to the teachers and offer a bonus program on accountability, experience, and most of all their qualifications.

MLD Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 23:36:13 (MDT)

Instead of posting bits and pieces of the document, please e-mail us the whole document if you have it and we will publish it for our readers. Nevertheless, thank your for your contribution.

This request goes to all our readers and contributors. An informed public is and empowered public. - Ed.

Though I respect Shahid, I disagree with his supporter. I saw the note by Hon. Arif which say "Shaahid vidhaalhuvegen kandalaafa". I'm referring to the bonus program for teachers. I am not protecting Dr. Latheef but I blame Shahid for taking this money out of the teachers income.

Majeediyya
Male' Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 22:45:16 (MDT)

All of you think you know so much of politics. Politics’ is not a physical meeting like in the round table of Theemuge (the Camelot of Maumoon, has kind of a long rectangular table with round edges). It’s a philosophy.

And this is a one mans dream, been shared with a Republic. Politic does not have a true side. It's popular sovereignty. An in this case its this one mans view that has to be understood and created.

By the way I am not talking of the 20 20 view of Maumoon. This is Mr. Saadiq's view. He does not want to upset anyone. He wants to create philosophy based on our own culture and scarce resources. Our countries history goes long back before US, the world’s largest democracy, was created. We have a vast and unique culture that is a blend of the south, Southeast Asian and Arab Cultures. His ideals relate more on the social, cultural and economic impact on the people then just one narrow-minded view of Gay-yoom (sorry if I spelled it wrong, I don’t really care).

So this is not a fight or a controversy or whatever u seems to be thinking of it as. But what I am telling you is that, this is a philosophy. You have to study and see this in his view to comment on it. Just saying what you think of it may not be the right reaction to this. Think about it.

Shifaau <S_h_ifaau@hotmail.com>
Maafannu, K. Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 22:39:30 (MDT)

Hats off to Mujutaba. The Maldivian government never mentioned that one of our people were being held (and probably sodomised and tortured) at Cuba by the Americans nor have they done anything to secure his release.

Mujthaba's concerns for human rights for all Maldivians becomes evident from him raising the issue with the US Asst. Sec. of State for South Asian Affairs. Let's hope the US does the right thing by immediately releasing him.

SAMIN
Colombo, Sri Lanka - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 21:20:29 (MDT)

TMA ACCIDENT:- Another slight blow for the tourism industry. But I wonder is Maldivian government and the security forces ready to take a major incident of this type. I am pretty sure that they will not be able to handle a Boeing crash landing. I have been in a few AAI (Aircraft Accident Investigations) and once exercise involving the recruits of the NSS went so badly that a few recruits (Boys and Girls) had to be hospitalised due to being exposed to rain for a long time. Some parents were furious due to this incident, when the parents were not informed that their beloved ones were hospitalise. This happened 2 years ago if I'm not mistaken. When myself and a colleague (from the Police) intervened to say that the NSS recruits when exposed to the rain for long period might create a havoc, were asked to stand down. Maldivians only learn lessons when something bad happens...

Regarding the TMA incident, I am under the impression that the Pilot misjudged the distance to the sea wall and the speed to take off thus lifting off with a lesser speed. Which did not give enough lift for the plan to clear the sea wall. This could be a Pilot error.

Beybe
USA - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 20:15:02 (MDT)

Is this forum independent or part of MDP?

I think the voters have given their verdict. We want MLD. The choice for the future. The choice of the people.

Yoyo
KL, Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 19:49:45 (MDT)

Dhivehi Observer is independent of influence from any political parties. Our aim if to provide a platform for information to be spread easily to all people of the country. Most of our editorial staff are members of MDP. But our work at Dhivehi Observer is to be part of the bigger picture of democratising Maldives and freeing the people of the tyranny of Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom.

Dhivehi Observer's promise to the people is we will provide information the public needs, without bias, so that people can make informed decisions.

Dhivehi Observer's intention is to be a Maldivian Institution for free speech and information and hope one day to be working directly from the Maldives. For more information please have a look at About us page. - Ed.

P.S. Our editorial staff does not speak for other members of MDP who may or may not prescribe to our philosophy of empowering the people through information.

For me the difference between MDP and MLD is that MDP is out there to find fault of Maumoon's administration and calling for accountability, and fairness. This is why until today MDP is unable to get the support of the people. Instead Ismail has offered a real alternative and a detailed program.

Maldivians are not so naive now to choose from Gayyoom, MDP or MLD. The choice is clear...MLD.

Kani
Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 17:30:06 (MDT)

I think it is time for MDP to take a long hard look and learn from Saadiq who not only has the ability to place a mole in every government office. To "keep" his people at all levels allowed him to manoeuvre at ease and to get things done for his members.

Whether it was NSS, Defense, Police, courts,Customs, IGMH, Immigration, ID Card Unit, MTCC, MIFCO, MMA or airlines he had his people to serve his members, followers and supporters.

You cannot create democracy and change a dictator by only exposing the flip side of this regime. You need to find a way to serve the people first instead of dreaming. Websites and emails cannot bring democracy to the people of Maldives.

Time to wake up and start serving the people you dream to govern.

Genuine
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 15:57:17 (MDT)

This is very troubling to see MDP supporters unable to accept another party and one that is more matured and who had been around since 1986. Give Saadiq the credit to come up with something you guys have never thought of.

Don't preach what you cannot do! I find Saadiq's DP feasible and practical. You must learn to be more graceful and respectable instead of calling Saadiq's ability to produce better alternative to the people of Maldives.

Please don't become a bunch of idiots!

Disgusted
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 13:28:53 (MDT)

It appears to me that Gayyoom's government is divided between Hameed & Ilyas's camps. Both camps through their respective agents are trying to exploit one another. I wonder whether Sodiq has any affiliation with any of these camps.

Sappe should keep himself clear from these conflicts and I am afraid he will join the winner and abandon his shallow commitment for democracy.

I am changing my affiliation from MDP to MLD as their position on all issues are better and well balanced. MDP supporters should stop character assassination of Saadiq and his MLD and get themselves to worker harder to win my vote back.

If MLD and MDP cannot compromise on issues only Gayyoom will come out as the winner!!!

Activist
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 11:12:22 (MDT)

MLD is the only credible alternative. If supporters of MDP are not happy about the DP they should come up with an acceptable alternative without much whining. Many of us have worked for Saadiq for years and one has to learn to be patience in order to bring any change in the country.

KLM
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 07:42:25 (MDT)

So far, there seems to be no credible evidence of the existence of MLD. It is highly likely that a party or an individual is up to some mischief!

Ahmed Naseer
Male', Kaafu Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 04:40:50 (MDT)

During late 1992 I was invited by Saadiq to Bangkok and was asked to work on various projections as to what we could do in the Maldives.

Saadiq obtained a confidential intelligence business report (IBR) from Singapore. These annual reports are prepared by Senior Economists and Academics of Singapore. In those reports they identified the potential
of their neighbours and what those countries could do to harm the interests of Singapore.

In this particular report Singapore identified several things, which Saadiq felt was the basis how he could develop the country.

His white paper on Economy shows the potential we possess as a country. I don't have a copy with me now, but if you could get one, you could invite Gayyoom's economic team to join MDP and challenge MLD.

Saadiq was never a person who shoots from his hip. Careful and detailed proposals were screened by professional economists in the region before he made his decision to endorse the final report.

I think he deserve the credit. Independent commentators must first know his extensive and 17 years of hard work. MDP has a long way to go. Good Luck.

Observer
Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 02:24:28 (MDT)

I was just talking to a friend of mine in London who works for MDP office there. It turns out that to MDP this Saadiq's DP is simply the best thing ever. But the sad story is they seem to think for some reason it is a plan by Ilyas for some reason.

What I don't understand is why would Ilyas release or be part of a conspiracy to release these documents. He or anybody else who is affiliated with Gayyoom government has nothing to gain by having this information out.

I am very confused and curious as to know what happens next.

A prank?
Male', K Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 01:59:28 (MDT)

Is it going to be the Clash of he Titans...... between MDP and MLD. I go for Saadiq as I have met him when the 7 eleven was operated in Male'. He is quite soft spoken and helps people with an open heart. I know his family and would like to see him return.. My prayers goes with the people who are peace lovers and works for democracy without violence. "RULE OF LAW STRENGTHENS DEMOCRACY"

Beybe
USA - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 01:51:20 (MDT)

Is MDP members trying to expose Sodiq because they were taken by surprise and their right to claim the first and major opposition party in Maldives?

I think the DO is encouraging this forum to place Sodiq's contacts and family in danger and jeopardize MLD.

Kaleem
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 01:13:35 (MDT)

I was with Saadiq in Bangkok when his phone rang. I knew he was speaking to foreign minister Jameel. After he kept the phone he told me, Yameen is going to be the next Trade Minister. He called Yameen instantly and told him that he infact is on the list to become a Minster. I heard on the speaker phone, Yameen saying "I don't believe you. I must be on the hit list not on the cabinet list". 2 days later Yameen became a minister and the first thing he did was to send a fax to Saadiq saying his embargo to obtain Maldivian government contracts have been lifted. Saadiq was offered to supply most of the imports thereafter.

Boy! This guy was something.

Saleem
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 00:54:46 (MDT)

Why did Saadiq choose the fishing industry? Was he planning to reach out to the average person? Why did he leave Maldives? He could have got himself banished to an island and like Gayyoom influenced the people.

Will he ever come back? We need him.

Mekunu
Vabbinfaru, Male - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 00:33:28 (MDT)

Sappe please don't cut and paste. This is for your information. Many Maldivians admire your sacrifice and work and I want to support you too. Male is a very small place and I don't wont to risk my life again while all of you are safe and outside the clutches of NSS.

I was among the staff members of Saadiq who were arrested mid 1995. I was shown those articles by Lieut. Nashid and Abdulla Riyaaz who were in charge of the investigation.

I was asked whether I knew about this political party and I said NO. I knew from Saadiq's partners that it was written by Associated Press and I just saw the original from their achieves as well. (The URL is too long to paste here)

I presume it was doctored by NSS to prove that Interpol was providing all those information to them. They tried to paint Saadiq as a drug dealer in order to get help from Interpol. I assume they got hold of the copy of this document from Saadiq's personal files either at Dharuma or Oriental Services/Thailand.

They both showed me the copy of the MLD DP which I can confirm is the same.

However, I am aware that Lieut. Nashid visited Bangkok and with the help of Interpol inspected Saadiq's offices. He showed me pictures of his visit to Bangkok and during the investigation told me that he was with
Interpol Bangkok.

NSS also obtained MLD's detailed policies for individual sectors, written by Saadiq, and his vision of cabinet ministers and heads of departments. I was also asked about his relationship with these individuals and/or whether his ships carried any goods for those high level officials.

I told them shipments for some ministers were regular and other supplies were regularly despatched on Saadiq's instructions from Seven Eleven shops to various senior govt and military officials including at times to Theemuge staff.

I am told from reliable sources that Defense ministry is still holding 9 computers, his personal notebook and hundreds of files and they were leaked while they moved them to their main store room at the Headquarters.

Just few months after this investigation Lt. Nashid "resigned" from NSS. Sergent Riyaaz was given a double promotion and Interpol stopped sharing classified information with Maldives. Lt Nashid was assigned officer for Interpol at NSS at that time. According to my sources, Interpol requires a special officer to be available all times in each and every member country and only this officer (Nashid) had the access to the passwords to get into their global data base.

Kappi
Colombo, Sri Lanka - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 00:06:06 (MDT)

Lee Kwang Yu former strong man of Singapore once said, "If Bill Gates could manage an industry worth billions, you better listen to him". Similarly if Saadiq could handle 540,000 tons Tuna and a $2b industry (Maldives exports less than 20,000 tons a year), we better listen to him.

Fisherman
Singapore - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 22:05:22 (MDT)

I know Abdulla Shahid very well. He never influenced the president in any way to suspend the professional allowance of school teachers. So all this talk of he being responsible for the suspension of teacher's professional allowance is outrageous. Shahid is a man of dignity and high moral standards. I only wish the writer knew Shahid as well as I do. The real culprit is Dr Latheef. He owes the teachers big time.

Friends of Abdulla Shahid Pvt Ltd.
Male'., Maldives. - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 21:53:14 (MDT)

Do you know what Maumoon's latest publicity stunt is? His press co is announcing that he has met the high level delegation he sent to the islands which were affected by recent tidal surges. He has so sent so many high level delegations to so many parts of the nation and abroad regarding many major issues. But, this is the first time, ever, that he met any one of them upon their return. So why should we believe he is genuinely interested in our well being and the environmental impact on our low lying islands?

Siyaasee Guru
M. Sanim, Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 21:48:20 (MDT)

Voting age should be from 18 since we have a very young majority population. restricting them to vote is an injustice. there is also unfairness in number of candidates. For Male two. ok it has highest population, that can increase and decrease depending on the circumstances. it should be from K atoll based on the atoll population. number of candidates will increase with population. than it would be fair no matter what century we are in.

Youth Pop
Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 21:34:17 (MDT)

MDP need not fear. MLD, MDP, MNC all should stay. the more the merrier and better for the country. MLD has the support of grassroots to take the presidency. But in a future constitution if it really address the needs and aspirations of Maldives it is likely that Presidents cannot stay for more than two terms. So depending on the circumstances there due will come. The country will benefit more if all the parties work together at this stage. Fate has given you all a person Maldivians can trust more than Gayyoom. Use it well.

Advisor
Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 20:37:13 (MDT)

Message to Sappe: First of all I would like to thank you for giving info on a person like Saadiq. You should remain independent. The country will benefit more that way. You have showed us what real journalism and information could do. At least it increases our hopes and get us into positive action. Those Aafathis and Haveeru people can learn a lesson from this and from the examples you have set. each of these papers has its place in the Maldivian society but you could occupy the space that inform us on our rights and governments misdeeds, mistakes (social and politics and for politicians). So that they will be forced to get their acts right no matter what party or person is in power.

Fan
R, R Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 20:33:02 (MDT)

Thank God I did not marry Saadiq! I would have never had the courage to raise a family while my husband is dying in Maafushi.

He failed because of his own father. He refers the old man as "Vafaadhaaru Khaadhim". His house was an extension of Theemuge in terms of politics. It is always Maumoon's way or highway!

I still admire him....love him?...Maybe!

Kanbulo
Suva, Fiji - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 17:09:25 (MDT)

I am responding to Saadiq's wife's' letter whereby she commented her knowledge to kill Saadiq while he was in Bangkok.

Just days before Saadiq "disappeared" I saw him with Deputy Minister of Atolls Mrs. Sheereen" (Hon. Mohamed Hussain's wife). After Saadiq left the STO/Flat in Bangkok, Sheereen spent hours with STO's agents and Sadiq's body guard Sgt Aseeth in Bangkok and when she came back, she told us. I quote her, " Ismail (Saadiq) will never return to Maldives again".

Was this all planned? Was Sheereen (Gayyoom's agent) who tried to murder Saadiq with STOs agents in Bangkok. Guess Gayyoom had his plans for Saadiq. He would have made Saadiq a martyr if he was assassinated.

Sheereen's behaviour and her subsequent nervousness gave me the impression that she in fact was Gayyoom's agent to kill Saadiq.

Conspiracy
Bangalore, India - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 16:18:26 (MDT)

Hmmmmm. Could you please put a human face on this person. Just can't wait to see him.

Maree
Perth, Australia - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 15:10:19 (MDT)

Sappe', thank you for your restless efforts. I’m sure you must have sacrificed your sleep and comfort for “our cause”, risking your life. You deserve our gratitude. Please don’t stop. Without you today we would have long forgotten one of the patriotic sons Maldives ever produced, for his return our hearts are crying out. Yes I’m talking about Saadiq. I’m sure ‘dhivehi’ blood still runs in his nerves, and I’m sure his heart is beating with love to his motherland. Saadiq, we are all waiting for you, to help us out of this misery. The nation desperately needs your service. Please don’t let us down. Come back. Please ……

Maldivian student
Perth, WA Australia - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 12:23:33 (MDT)

I am former police officer who was sent to Dhoonidhoo to guard Saadiq. We were clearly instructed to keep him isolated at all times and not to let him talk or pass any information. We were told that he wields enormous financial power to persuade guards to pass on information.

Like many others I carried messages to senior govt. officials including two current cabinet minsters. They in return helped Saadiq to get necessary medication as he was internally bleeding.

We were asked to replace Urine samples of Saadiq to convince Anbaree that he was doing ok and not sick at all. He was forced to sleep with sick inmates who were suffering from TB, whooping cough and Meningitis. The medication prescribed by Dr. Mohamed Ahmed was denied and changed to Vitamin C etc and unlike all other inmates he was denied to keep the medication with him, because we were told he was suicidal.

Anbaree and the rest tried their best to give him a natural death. He was hospitalized half a dozen times while in custody. Dr. Mohamed Ahmed secretly visited Dhoonidhoo (late nights) to see him and give him medication after the International community and his parents protested, but the medication was either never given or switched to other tablets.

Despite all the obstacles placed on him, he found ways and means to get around and get what he wanted. He was a real survivor.

Zul
Madras, India - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 11:25:33 (MDT)

Now that we are talking about Saadiq, let me also add that Gayyoom & Nasreena planned to get Saadiq married with a girl who was at Theemuge. Shirumeena accompanied the First Lady to Singapore during the early 80s when Saadiq was at Maldivian Govt. Trade Center. Saadiq was assigned to take care of Shirumeena, and according to reliable sources, Nasreena really pushed Saadiq's parents to get this going. Gayyoom learnt one lesson from Cairo. If you cannot convince your enemy than join him. He failed. Shirumeena was subsequently raped by Ilyas and ended up in a Mental hospital in Colombo. Today she lives in Villingili with her husband whose business is financed still by Theemuge.

Friends
London, UK - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 11:00:39 (MDT)

I spent a year in Dhoonidhoo with Saadiq. He was a very brave man. Even while in his cell, he tried his best to help other cell mates. He managed to get medicine etc etc and helped people even while he was risking his own life. He was severely "punished" when they caught him helping other 'clients'. We were released only after Saadiq gave a gift to "Vaavu Lhahuthu and to a Director at Defense" Our punishment were significantly reduced and given other services only after Saadiq intervened through his connections. The leadership of Fua Mulaku owes him a lot. We will reciprocate and give him our vote.

Shareef
Fua Mulaku, GN Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 10:45:08 (MDT)

Rumours are in Male that one hard disk of Sadiq's computer at NSS had gone missing yesterday, as many scrambled to look at them. Another mystery for Gayyoom to solve.

It is the hard work and dedication of Saadiq which enabled him to pull the strings from 20,000 miles.

The outpouring love & admiration to Saadiq is unbelievable. People all over the country are convinced that they have fund a son from it's soil to replace this dying regime.

Wadda
Perth, Australia - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 10:27:02 (MDT)

When I worked for Saadiq, I applied to the PO office to bring two large ferries (300 passengers 55knots, $1.4million). Gayyoom under pressure approved for tax reduction, but pressured MOT/Ilyas and refused to let him operate them. The excuse? - the ferries will damage the reefs even if it sails 5 miles from the atolls. What a joke! Saadiq offered a return trip to Addu for Rf.500 with 50% deduction for children under 12.

I for one believe that Maumoon was aware of his political ambition thus stopped him to influence the people of Maldives.

This is to reiterate our support to Saadiq from Lahore and Karachi.

Dr. XXX
Lahore, Punjab Pakistan - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 06:26:36 (MDT)

This is really unbelievable. News from Male came out yesterday of a new political party. Patients at various hospitals, clients at guest houses have been craving to see what this is all about. Some have limited knowledge of this MLD and for many it was a real surprise. But I must admit most of them knew about Saadiq and about his shops.

As you may know many Maldivians are like a 'bondu'. When they are out of their shackles of Maumoon they speak their heart out, and once they land in Hulhule they have to zip their mouths. There is a strong support for him. Some of them visited here during the 90s on 7Eleven account.

Lojehi
Trivendrum, India - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 06:14:20 (MDT)

Sappe. Let Soadhu know that Hinnavaru & Lhaviyani Atoll is for him. He laid the foundation of Feliwaru and the Tuna Industry of Maldives. We owe him the progress of this industry. It was his vision to privatize the fish collections. He lobbied the government for years to divide the atolls into zones and to privatize like the Tourist Industry. Today he is gone but our memories are with him.

Lhafa/Kuredu
Hinnavaru, Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 06:00:41 (MDT)

We are still receiving messages from all over the world quoting "Breaking News" New political party in Maldives. Sappe, this message is only to let you know how much we appreciate your work. If not for you,
we would have never known, about MLD and what Saadiq was up to over the years.

Maumoon kept this away from all the people and tried to convince his subjects, that Saadiq is a traitor. He is our saviour, beacon and our hero. Many other Maldivians in Dubai and Qatar joins me to convey our unrelenting support for his party. "Together we can make a difference" and you are the Catalyst and you deserve our praise.

Vadi
Dubai, UAE - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 05:40:36 (MDT)

Sappe, I am a sailor and our ship is in Cape Town, South Africa. When we come ashore we use to go to Internet cafe's to read about Maldives. Today I saw this article about my former cell mate Ismail Saadiq. We were together in the same cell in Odeon for couple of weeks. He was very sick and bleeding for days. The inmates helped him to survive. After I was released I met him, just days before he left Maldives.

He told me, he has forgiven Maumoon but he won't forget him after all what he went through. He was an innocent man. A very positive person and most of all a leader.

He was able to get medicine, telephones into the cells and we saw senior officers providing him "services". Please don't take him lightly, he really had "connections".

Saleem
Cape Town, South Africa - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 05:27:43 (MDT)

Sappe,

I remember Saadiq was born on August 19, 1959. He lost a 20 million dollar contract from EU to transfer Tuna from European purse seiners to reefer carriers in Addu, because Haveeru reported that he was born on the same day as former President Bill Clinton. He offered Addu people 5 million dollars and 1000 jobs. His crime - born on the same day as Bill Clinton.

I wonder when you were born. Does it matter? But for Maumoon it matters!

Raheem
KL, Malaysia - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 04:28:39 (MDT)

Maldivian women should look no further than the DP of MLD. Saadiq had clearly offered specific rights to ensure women are granted the privileges they deserve. As a former teacher, I have no hesitation to support Saadiq for his endeavours. As a mother and a wife, my heart goes to his family and would like to assure her that she is not alone.

Sappe, pictures are more powerful than words. Can't you put a face on Saadiq and his daughter?

Latheefa
Colombo, Sri Lanka - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 04:16:44 (MDT)

Is it Sodig, Sodiq, Sadig or Saadiq? It is confusing.

Anthu
Kuwait City, Kuwait - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 04:01:21 (MDT)

We have struggled with that too, but from the letter his wife (who know him better than anybody else) wrote to the president and the newspaper clippings on him that we have acquired, we believe it to be spelled as SAADIQ - we apologise to Saadiq and his family and to our readers for the confusion. Any misspellings that we had in this site has been corrected as well - Ed.

I hope MDP is not offended about all this, instead will continue their work independently or jointly with MLD.

I think you must invite MLD to work together for the same cause. Saadiq is a hard nut to crack, and wonder whether you guys have the patience to work discretely like him.

This is a wake up call for MDP.

Zamar
Brisbane, Australia - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 03:41:33 (MDT)

Sappe', You have done a good job!

The people here in Maldives are thrilled to see this new direction of hope. Thanks to high tech where we can by pass Dhiraagu. Unlike all of you, Saadiq was a person who could sit in Seven Eleven shop floors or in a market goalhi and be with the ordinary people.

Despite the big notice at Beverly Hills from Isthafa, he had endless supporters, from every corner of the Maldives. He assured us that his work would not go down the drain in vain.

Now he must come out of his isolation and like Saddam send Maumoon into that rat hole.

Jalla
Kani, Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 03:33:19 (MDT)

Days before Saadiq resigned from MSL-Singapore and moved to Thailand, Maumoon told many of his close cabinet ministers that he was aware that Saadiq was involved in inappropriate businesses. He tried his best to label him as a drug dealer. Maumoon knew about his activities very early and kept him under watch. Now we know how he lost his patience and got him locked up.

Sappe, what a wonderful piece of work. You have really made a difference. It is just panic here.

Villingili
Villingili, Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 03:11:45 (MDT)

Just spoke to a close friend at NSS who was talking with top military officers who told him that they too heard about this hooplaa on the internet. He told my friend, "We were all against releasing Saadiq, because we saw his computers and his work" To let Saadiq leave Maldives was the biggest blunder of this government."

He told Gayyoom gave some consideration, because his own cabinet members were pushing him to do so. Besides it was well planned to murder Saadiq in Bangkok and blame Thai Mafia for everything.

Blue Haven
Henveiru, Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 02:51:34 (MDT)

If we look at the situation in India today it is proof that we don't need to worry about peoples backgrounds too much. It is about what they can do for the country.

So it doesn't matter if it is Sappe, Anni or Saadiq (some might argue they might have questionable pasts), it is democracy we want.

Background
Male', K Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 02:39:18 (MDT)

Did any one of you noticed why we have a constitution which bars Maldivians married with foreigners to run for President? Was this targeted against Mujutaba, Musthafa or SAADIQ or who else?

Ihuru
Male , Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 02:35:20 (MDT)

We wish we were like the Indians, Sri Lankan's and even the Spanish to wake up one morning and see the peoples' voice heard through a ballot box.

Despite this sadness, we woke up today with a hope that we would be lucky to have Sodiq who was willing to risk his own life and pay the life of his child to help the citizens of this country.

Today we are relieved, that Sodiq's voice is heard in every island. MLD members are among the top brass of this administration and the military.

The businessmen and the consumers are indebted to Sodiq, who brought the monopoly of shipping. From $3000 dollars for a 20ft container to $750 a container from Singapore to Male.

Sodiq knew too well, that one need to have patience and perseverance to develop a movement. No wonder Gayyoom kept this away from the people. These detailed policies of Sodiq has changed the mind set of the people forever.

Vellassaru
Male Atoll, Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 02:29:46 (MDT)

How soon can you guys publish a more comprehensive profile of Mr. Saadiq preferably along with a recent interview exclusively given to Dhivehi Observer? (it cant be that hard to get an interview with him, you have been spreading more news just from your work stations).

Also what is his stand on Maldives as of now (May 2004)? Is he still interested in becoming a leader of Maldives? Or has he given up after the abuses received by Gayyoom?

How soon can you provide an up-to-date new photo of Ismail Saadiq?

Need more info
Male', K Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 02:08:59 (MDT)

This is exiting stuff. Maldives Culture calls your efforts "The Dhivehi Observer continues its fearless expose of corruption and economic mismanagement in Maumoon Gayyoom's Maldives".

You guys have overtaken in the last 2 months all independent well established dissent sites and magazines and newsletters. What is better is that you have made it a comprehensive guide. Where all information are brought together from all different sources to be accessed at one place. And for that credit is due to Dhivehi Observer (almost half a million visitors to the main page since September events of last year).

While we compliment Sappe' for for being a very efficient senior editor for this site, it must not be forgotten that Muju M. Naeem (still very mysterious person - of which little is known of) was involved from the beginning..

I know from very reliable sources that this was an idea by Muju placed to Sappe to get rid of that "maarukeytu" look Sappe's ilovemaldives.com had before Observer came along. It is also believed that Muju even designed the absolutely brilliant Observer logo which sums up their work brilliantly.

Dhivehi Observer Logo - the national emblem represents the government of Maldives. We all know that the government is only presenting half the story while the rest is being filled in the Dhivehi Observer. Simply brilliant!!!

Keep up the good work.

Fearless
Male', K Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 01:50:57 (MDT)

I suggest MDP adopt MLD's Development Program and build on that. That will give MDP more credit and would give you more support. But before this is done, MDP should make contact with Saadiq and get his blessings and approval before its adopted. After all he wrote it for MLD not MDP. A coalition is the answer.

In support of a Coalition
Male, K Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 01:22:06 (MDT)

When is the new Observer Digest coming out so that we can spread this news more efficiently? Not everybody has access to computers and this news needs to be spread regardless. Trying to cut and paste the text to print is not the easiest option at the moment and the Dhivehi Observer Digest would make this task a lot easier.

Also this time can you include Dhivehi articles in the digest as well?

Digest
Male', K Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 01:08:35 (MDT)

SADDAM AND MAUMOON

Things in common: Quite unbelievable!! Mind Boggling Similarity!!

1. Autocratic Dictator - rule by fear and intimidation.
2. Opposition and critics met with an iron fist - complete destruction and devastation.
3. Appoints his family members and friends to the most powerful posts.
4. No regard for the lives of his people.
5. Love a lavish lifestyle, private palace, fancy grand office, private yacht.
6. Uses Islam to delude and bewilder his people.
7. Brutal killings of innocent citizens - blood of their citizens is on their hands.
8. Supports Yasser Arafat.
9. In power for more than 25 years.
10. Although the election is a farce, loves getting A++ (merit over 90%).
11. Absolute control over the media in the country.
12. His personal expenses more important than public services.
13. Projects a strong family man scene to the public.
14. Loves to be surrounded by people who worship him.
15. Corruption is the measure with which one can succeed in his administration.

AND the worst part is they are friends according to Gayyoom's biography. Explains a lot doesn't it?

The list can go on....and on.... lets hope that the end will be the same!

Saddam and Maumoon
Male', K Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 00:56:42 (MDT)

When I came to office this morning, the telephones were ringing as if something strange was going on. I saw my minister on the phone all the time. He won't let anyone of us get to him.

So I had to call my friends and ask the rest what was going on today. Everybody is hush hush. Finally I was told about a new political party. Rumours says Fishermen in the islands have a formed a party. Fishermen are angry with Gayyoom and at last I knew you guys have come up with something and people are calling every Maldivian overseas to download the Saadiq's political party stuff. Good job! At least they are listening.

Huvaas
Male, Maldives - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 00:03:59 (MDT)

MDP might not like what Dhivehi Observer had done. You guys there at DO are members of MDP but you guys gave the world an exclusive on Ismail Saadiq of MLD.

As it turns out Saadiq is a bigger tour de force than MDP is at the moment. And he hasn't even said a word. Smart man. All headway done by MDP is in jeopardy, because of Saadiq DP. Why? because it set the bar for what is acceptable to Maldivians.

Now MDP needs to have clear outlines policies, a Development Plan, and a manifesto all available together before we believe what they have to say.

But don't get this wrong. Its not a bad thing. This has simply put the pressure on MDP to make their work more efficient and gives them direction as to what they should be doing.

Either way it is democracy we want, clear cut policies and a DP that is for the people and working for the people.

Setting the standard.
Hulhule', K Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 23:22:31 (MDT)

Rules are treated like laws. But they are made by government bodies and can change anytime they want. No need to wait for a vote. But that’s the weapon and cover they use whenever a journalist or even public question about unfair practices. Sometimes these rules restrict effective implementation of the law. For a recent case on this monitor closely the coming special Majlis election.

Hassanu
Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 22:25:38 (MDT)

How can Parliament be barred from state secrets? Maafushi prison scandal and all the scandals in history or something occurred internally and it’s our problem. Maumoon and his regime treats Maldivian people like some retards. Parliament should have questioned them openly regarding Maafushi scandal and it should have broadcasted on TV for the whole public to see. The commission should be set from the parliament and run by the parliament till it is time to get to the trial. The trial should be conducted by an independent judiciary (from Maumoon) perhaps judges appointed by the parliament since the government is involved in this scandal. Maumoon and Adam Zahir and all the high-ranking officials should testify in front of judges and parliament. In future constitution they should eliminate 8 seats for the president’s appointees. Parliament is no place for them. The only thing they do is harass and threat bills that protects the rights of the Maldivian people while encourage and force bills that protects them from prosecution for all the corruption and illegal activities they have committed. They should also abolish the system of two members for each Atoll and number of members should be proportional to the population of any Atoll. One member for 5000 people. Parliament members should now act to impeach the president. He is a traitor to the country and Maldivian people.

Ideal Situation
Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 21:53:41 (MDT)

Our country is governed by Mafia - the Maldivian Mafia. It has become sinister and darker than even a black hole devouring light and anything in its path. Writers out there can write a very good thriller/novel based on the true story of Ismail Saadiq, Ilyas, Falho et al. and sell it to an international publisher. Guys/gals think about it. Or perhaps can we have a biography of Mr. Ismail Saadiq and key players of reform movement please.

Book Worm
Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 21:30:47 (MDT)

Please don't expect Gayyoom to investigate his cronies, whether it is for corruption or bad behaviour. Come out with some concrete plans like the ones Saadiq has submitted. It is the only way to change the minds of people.

It is useless for you to tell the people about what they already know. We islanders have no choice but to wait for the word of Hameed. But you can work on the points Saadiq had presented, even we 'beerattehin' will now listen and insist for change. Stop this, Gayyoom did this and that. Give us a choice, we are not so dumb anymore.

Zedey
Kulhudhufushi, HD Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 19:31:32 (MDT)

Thank you Sappe. We don't get any holidays and we don't get any time to spend with our family. If we don't go to school during the weekend and public holidays the supervisors will mark us. We cant get any time to do any other work to earn money. Only you have said something about our situation. Thank you Sappe. I hope we will get our allowances back when MDP comes to power. You have my vote. Thank you Sappe.

A Kalaafaanu School Teacher
Male', Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 19:13:54 (MDT)

This is to inform you and your readers that Mr. Ismail Saadiq have been appointed by the US government as a Board Member of Kurdish Human Rights Watch, USA after acknowledging his numerous contributions to Human Rights activities around the world.

Michaelle Ray <michealle@KHRW.org>
Dallas, TX USA - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 17:27:16 (MDT)

Please don't make Saadiq a saint. He broke my heart.

AIS
Montreal, Canada - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 14:15:57 (MDT)

Saadiq,s view on world events. Quoted from BBC-London. BBC selected Ismail Saadiq to comment on world events.

What do you think about Bush's state visit (to UK)? Do you agree with the protests? Did you take part in the demonstrations?

On Sunday 23 November we will be discussing the role of the US in the world in our global phone-in programme Talking Point. The following comments reflect the balance of views we have received:

It was a PR disaster. Despite all the odds against him, he had no choice but to put up a face in London. This has widened the gap between the Americans and the rest of the world. Ismail Saadiq, Maldives

Research
Singapore, Singapore - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 14:09:42 (MDT)

I saw this from the website I just sent to you. According to the website Plano is North Texas city. It is known as the Greenest city in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records. It is among the ten safest city in the United States.

Wilson MS Students Hear from Ex-POW
On November 13, Wilson Middle School American History students heard from guest speaker Ismail Saadiq who was granted political asylum by the U.S. government last year. He described his road to freedom by comparing his journey to that of American colonists. A native of Maldives, he was held in a Maldivian prison for 61 months in solitary confinement for his political views. In an earlier assassination attempt on his family, the secret police poisoned his daughter Nikki on her second birthday. Today, Nikki is a student at Wilson, and her body still bears the scars of the poisoning.

Research
Singapore, Singapore - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 13:54:03 (MDT)

We now believe Saadiq and Maldivians must raise up and support his cause.
http://www.google.com/search?q=Ismail+Saadiq&hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&start=10&sa=N

Research
Singapore, Singapore - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 13:44:11 (MDT)

We support Saadiq for his efforts to bring much needed change to a people who are desperate for change. He is now a US citizen. Is he done with the Maldives? At least he is safe from the wrath of Gayyoom. I hope Gayyoom is more than aware the consequences of harming an American citizen.

Dhivehi Observer has rekindled the hopes of Maldivians by exposing the truth about similar folks who dream of a better life.

Thinadu Zuvaanun
Thinadui, GD Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 12:54:12 (MDT)

Thank you. It was our pleasure! - Ed.

Can MDP now challenge MLD? Can Saadiq respond to all this outpouring support to him. Have anyone seen his "white paper" for Education, Fisheries, Healthcare, Tourism and Youth Development. I just heard it is out there. Will someone who have access to them pass over to Dhivehi Observer so we all can look at them?

Guruwa
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 11:13:54 (MDT)

Addu fishermen for Saadiq. God bless him. We will all pray for his daughter. No gain without pain!

Masverin
Hithadhoo, Seenu Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 10:50:52 (MDT)

MDP must come out with a reasonable plan for them to look credible. Talking about this administration is leading them no where. Like Saadiq, come out with something we can rely on. When we saw what Saadiq had to offer, people had shifted their support to him and now look at MDP like a trouble maker.

Kotari
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 10:36:53 (MDT)

We fishermen have never seen someone like Saadiq who had any plans for us. Need a translation of his DP soon before all this interest dies down. Please keep up the momentum, the people are excited to see this. We have been receiving SMS messages supporting Saadiq all day.

Jaleel
Eydhafushi, Baa Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 10:29:28 (MDT)

This wonderful piece of work has shaken Maldives to it's core. I think each and everyone of us who have access to a computer had a copy of this MLD report. This shows the opposition to this regime was there long before Sappe and Anni came from UK. I only hope they would take note of this magnificent plan and work on it. Stop and think for a while. You need to do grassroots work like Saadiq and like communism in the past, move from bottom to up and not by attacking the problems of the top to down. Today Saadiq is more popular than Gayyoom for that matter. Many are in tears to see his suffering. On behalf of the staff here and other resorts, we would like to convey our support to Sodiq. We need more people like him.

Naseem
Bandos, Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 10:02:28 (MDT)

I disagree that it was Dr. Latheef who stopped those payments for the teachers. Hon. Arif Hilmy gave a choice to the cabinet, either reduce their respective budgets to accommodate a luxury yacht for Gayyoom. The proposals were sent to PO and it was Abdulla Shahid who felt the teachers were making too much money. Ofcourse Dr. Latheef is to be blamed for not standing up for the teachers. We are now paying for the President's entertainment while he claims we need more teachers (who will work for peanuts).

Majeediyya
Male, Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 09:14:13 (MDT)

Please don't let Gayyoom get away again with murder. We were able to get at least "6 terrorists" to protest for the death of Evan Naseem. Let's keep the pressure so Saadiq's daughters' life won't go in vain.

Sacrifice
KL, Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 07:25:09 (MDT)

I have never seen Maldivians so excited about anything for a long time. The work of Saadiq has shown us that we are capable to produce policies without making Maldives into a Missionary. How long can Gayyoom fool all the people? And my question is how long are we going to let him do it?

Hukuru
Velidhoo, Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 07:21:11 (MDT)

I have read the MLD's DP with great interest and I want to commend Saadiq for bring up a detailed plan for all of us. Today Gayyoom has lost all his credibility to make us believe that he was arrested for business irregularities. This fine young man had proven far beyond reasonable doubt that he was not only willing to work but also to make necessary sacrifices. If history teaches anything to Gayyoom, Saadiq will haunt him for the rest of his life. I only pray that his daughter's life will not go in vain.

Masveriya
Wellington, NZ - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 02:12:36 (MDT)

The president expects everyone to sing praise for him like Sammarey and his bands. Get real and stop living in a fantasy world oppressing natural instincts of us to seek and provide information of all forms from all sides. If you are really itching to ban a site ban all the Porn sites that can be accessed from Maldives. I would COMPLAIN in here and HEREAFTER and hold you accountable for limiting access to information and restricting us to think on our own. Which is even contrary to Holy book which says look around, observe, think and act. To do that we need all types of information possible. I know it may be useless talking like this to a hypocrite.

Hereafter
Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 01:41:28 (MDT)

"A teacher's" comments are very true. I was one of the few people who tired to convince Dr Latheef not to go ahead with his policy of suspending professional allowances to trained teachers. I failed. Teachers will never forgive Dr Latheef for his action. They will neither buy it when HEP says his government always places a very high regard to the teaching profession.

MOE executive
Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 01:17:03 (MDT)

Saadigu ah kilegekan dheyn fene! Saabahun Saabas

Thakuru
Maldives - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 00:03:07 (MDT)

Sappe. You better change the heading. I was a founding member of MLD and it was started on 6th June 1986. The head line stating that MLD started in 1993 is wrong. After Fishermen's Association was dissolved, Saadiq decided to form MLD officially in Thailand and that's what that intelligence report is referring. Where on earth did you get this. I am sure even Saadiq hasn't seen it. Otherwise I would have known about it.

Rasheed
USA - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 23:54:25 (MDT)

I was a member of MLD since its conception in 1986. It was a real grass root operation with very long term plans. Many senior officials in Gayyoom's administration are still supporters of Saadiq. Chief Justice Mohamed Rasheed Ibrahim and Hon. Ismail Safeeu personally called Gayyoom to release him. Several others including buddies like Hon Ahmed Abdulla, Zakariyya Hameed and Dr. Latheef were among the people who lobbied for his release. Senior miliary officers were also extensively lobbying for better treatment while he was at Dhoonidhoo. Some visited him in prison and gave him moral support. I am glad you were able to get this out for many others to know that he was a man of character, not a traitor as we were led to believe.

Waseem
Kandholhudu, Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 22:55:36 (MDT)

I recall reading an article about Saadiq in Haveeru (in English). The writer was upset because many compared him to Martin Luther King or Mandela. The article was written and approved by Gayyoom and Saadiq was brought from Dhoonidhoo to the Police headquarters and was given a copy physically by Brigadier Adam Zahir and was asked him "whether he still wants to change the government". I am out of the police now and you can quote me for this.

Rushdee
Feydu, Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 22:23:31 (MDT)

Saadiq first started writing to "HAFTHA" about fishing in the Maldives, long before he saw canned tuna in Bangkok. His father is from a fishing village and he wrote about his childhood experience to go to Haa Alif Thuraakunu on a sailing boat to join the fishermen who migrates from other atolls. Though he has gone through rough times, we need him now more than ever. Now we believe and trust him. Gayyoom has shown us once again that there is no room for good people.

Zaki
Thinadu, Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 22:04:28 (MDT)

No matter what you expose these guys won't leave their "God given jobs". I think we should take a step backward and read what Saadiq had planned. This is a good platform, from where we could all take heed. We have lost a fine young man. Will he ever come back to Maldives?

Gamees
Dhandhoo, Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 21:50:15 (MDT)

This is a very historical movement. At least we had some clever people to form and operate a Political Party well before you guys signed that application. Saadiq's failure was only because of his family who became his biggest 'hindrance'. Old man Saadiq knew too well, that young people like his son must wait in line until we are done with Gayyoom. His 50 years of dedication to 4 head of states taught him that his son was wrong. I wonder whether historians will remember this young man who had a "real dream".

Villingili
Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 19:37:12 (MDT)

Now we know where Gayyoom get his money to get re-elected. I was a close friend of a former Police Office and I am aware Saadiq was arrested and questioned about Jameel collecting hundreds of thousands of Dollars from Korean fishing companies in return for illegal fishing activities in the EEZ. My folks! Gayyoom not only emptied our coffers but also "he sold our seas" to get him re-elected. Saadiq was held in Dhoonidhoo for many months and tortured because he told the truth. Soon we will know he gave the resorts to Universal for "nothing" but in return for his campaign.

Ammadey
KL, Malaysia - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 19:21:47 (MDT)

How on earth could one take the life of others to remain in power. I wonder what Gayyoom learnt in Cairo during his 22 years. I wonder from where he has the guts to go and talk about Islam. What a Munaafiq. I have no words to describe his brutality.

Jambe
Brisbane, Australia - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 19:02:45 (MDT)

A very good coverage of the realities in the educational sector. Let me share one important piece of information with the readers. Teachers used to receive a professional allowance ( as they do in UK and elsewhere) in recognition of the importance of the profession to our country. This professional allowance was scraped by Dr Latheef. He thought he may score a few bonus points from Mr. Gayyoom by taking this decision at the time when Gayyoom was introducing a fixed allowance for all professionals in the government. What is interesting to note here is that the State Attorney's at the AG Office were not denied of the professional allowance they were receiving because Dr Munnavvar did not agree to it. Teachers lost a significant part of their income and their status in the community because of Dr Latheef's decision. So one should not be too surprised of why intelligent kids no longer choose teaching as a profession nor why trained teachers leave the profession. The question now is whether Dr Shaugee has the political will to reinstate the true status of teachers by providing them their rightful allowance. My answer? A big NO.

A teacher
Male', Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 18:02:20 (MDT)

Can someone put a photo of Saadiq, so we will all know who he is?

Asippe
Perth, Australia - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 16:12:03 (MDT)

We are looking for a photo at the moment. In the mean time if any of our readers has a picture please feel free to forward it to us. We are also looking for pictures of Koli Ali Manik, Evan's murder/Maafushi shootings court proceedings pictures as well. To contribute please send pictures to dhivehiobserver@gmail.com . - Ed.

If we all had supported Saadiq and allowed him to open a 7Eleven in every neighbourhood in Male, we could have been living in another world today, but most of us were led to believe that they will in time change Chandhanee Magu into a Patpong? It is too late now. We need more "Saadiq's" to come up and lead, after all we all eat Tuna.

Umar
Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 15:58:40 (MDT)

What is this frenzy about Saadiq? Many of us knew about MLD long time ago. This was no secret, but what is surprising is his detailed vision and how creative he is. We can commend him for the initiative to create a political party long before Latheef/Anni/Sappe came into the picture. He has made MDP look like the Communist Party of India.

Muna
Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 15:52:53 (MDT)

Finally you have something we like to read. Some concrete suggestions, plans and real thoughtful facts. Today we have come to a point where we know that we have people among ourselves who have better plans for the Maldives. A definite alternative of what we are offered by MAG. Our leadership has failed us for the last quarter of the century. Here we have a young man who has the vision and real choices. I have never ever seen such a detailed plan for what we have been so hungry for years. I salute Ismail Saadiq for his humble work and I am angry because MAG led us to believe he has committed treason.

kah
Cairo, Egypt - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 14:57:15 (MDT)

Maumoon has mislead the public to believe a lot of people have committed treason. We don't have to look too far to see proof of that. The trials of 6 alleged 'terrorists' is one recent example - Ed.

What's all this fuss? I was woken up this morning by friends around the globe as if the Maldives has changed it's leadership, instead I saw the news of Sonia Gandhi. We should hold Saadiq responsible for keeping many of the young and educated out of his dreams and whatever vision he had for the Maldives. He could have shared this while in prison and made himself a hero. Now that he has gone, it is too late for me to call him a Hero. Unless he learns to motivate the youth he or anyone for that matter have no chance to bring any change to Maldives. Saadiq's vision was hijacked and kept at NSS. If he wanted change in such grand scale he should have shared his work with many others. What I hear now is that he wanted a cosmetic change keeping most of these cronies and the top brass of Gayyoom as advisors. He must have been dreaming!

Meena
Hamburg, Germany - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 10:48:15 (MDT)

My parents were members of MLD since 1986 and I saw their work which was at very infant stage. But over the years they worked hard with a very long term goal. Saadiq tried his best to run for the parliament during 1998 elections. I was in his campaign staff. Gayyoom cancelled his candidacy even after Commissioner Abdulla Rasheed (Seedibe) accepted his candidacy. He was served a letter in Dhoonidhoo from the Ministry of Defense stating that his candidacy had been removed from the ballot. We challenged this with Seedibe and on record he told many of us that Isthafa told him that he has received instructions from Gayyoom to serve that notice. I think it is time for Maldivians to understand that we cannot change this regime through a ballot box instead we have to look for all other "alternatives". Saadiq's peaceful and ballot box themes won't work with this brutal regime. Like Saddam he will listen only when there is a threat. Defamation and exposing his cronies will lead us to nowhere. Believe me it won't work.

Sameer
Canada - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 10:33:32 (MDT)

Dear Sappe. Will you be kind enough to translate this (Saadiq's Vision) into Dhivehi and place on your website so that we could transfer them to the people of the Maldives who deserve to know what Saadiq had planned for them. Let the people know for sure, we are a country where people are not only for selfishness and power. My heart goes to Sodiq and to his family and pray we have others to follow his footsteps and carry his mantle from here to a meaningful change.

Goyya
Friday, May 14, 2004 at 09:58:48 (MDT)

I think we need to look at all this in a completely different perspective. In 1986, almost 20 years ago a young man in the Maldives had a vision, a vision for the people of Maldives. He went through good and bad times and made the ultimate sacrifice. He was arrested, tortured and literally died in the hands of Gayyoom and he lost his own child. He lost his money and the love of the family and friends, because he had a vision. I would have never written to this forum or never participated in this Gayyoom bashing. But after I read what Saadiq had dreamt for the people of Maldives, I decided that it is not possible for anyone to sit idle and wait for a change. His selfless and open minded vision is what many of us never thought could have ever been possible. If only MDP and even Gayyoom for that matter use these dedicated souls, Maldives would have been a much better place for centuries to come. He is a real Hero.

Reform
Australia - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 09:51:26 (MDT)

It is time to form a coalition between MDP, MLD, MNC, and all other reform organisations. It is time to make this democratic revolution united for the common good. Saadiq's DP can be the reason and the goal for all parties to be United against the evils of Gayyoom!!!

Coalition
Male', Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 02:13:54 (MDT)

Saadiq worked for President Nasir, Kandi Ahmed Ismail, Ilyas Ibrahim, Kolige Ali Maniku, Fatuhula Jameel and even Yamin. He has seen it all. More than half of the cabinet, top military brass and local business elite even today are in touch with him. His ideas are what we now need in the Maldives. Now we need the rest to implement them.

Dhoni
Friday, May 14, 2004 at 02:08:58 (MDT)

I propose a petition to declare Saadiq - A National Hero for democracy and Freedom!!!

For a National Hero
Male', Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 02:10:03 (MDT)

SAADIQ FOR PRESIDENT!!!

For freedom
Male', Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 02:07:22 (MDT)

I am thrilled that we have Maldivians who really think of others instead of themselves. I know very little of Kuda Soadhu, but this comprehensive and detailed plans for the country is far more than what we could have expected even from MDP. We need more people like Soadhu.

Qaumee loabi
Maldives - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 01:58:50 (MDT)

I just called Male and I was told that this article is all over. Lots of opinions both in favour and against Saadiq. Most people now realize Saadiq's hidden agenda. He had his fingers in every corner. I only hope his poor Dad will survive this blast.

kjc
Malaysia - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 00:24:50 (MDT)

Saadiq was an opportunist who had his wallet open for all the cronies. Unfortunately the massage parlours of Bangkok lured half the cabinet and elite to his doorstep. We have such cheap people who were willing to take advantage of Sodiq while praising Gayyoom on their return home. But now I must admit Saadiq had a wallet and a heart as well.

kashikeyo
Suva, Fiji - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 23:47:38 (MDT)

This is incredible stuff. I am surprised we had people even a decade ago thinking and caring about the islanders. Saadiq is a nothing less than a Hero.

yuyuyuy
Maldives - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 23:38:16 (MDT)

Kuda Sappe. You are wrong. MLD was inaugurated on June 6, 1986 and was operated by a officially registered organization "Fisherman's Association of Maldives. The organization was dissolved when Ismail Sodiq refused to return to Maldives after the FPID fiasco. According to the letter from Ministry of Home Affairs signed by Hon. Umar Zahir, the organization was dissolved when one of its "Masuul veriyaa" refused to return to Maldives" (to confront Gayyoom's torture chambers). On 11th November 1991 Gayyoom's agents poisoned Sodiq's daughter. When the second Masuul Veriyaa requested for a replacement, Gayyoom told them - no way. He has left us, but your work brings the inspiration we desperately need.

Aysha <Latheefaumar@hotmail.com>
Colombo, Maldives - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 19:38:53 (MDT)

Sappe. What a wonderful piece of work. We knew when Sodiq started his business in Maldives and brought inflation down from 17% to 5% in 3 years his motives where very different but patriotic. As a class mate with him in the early seventies, and subsequently working with him in Maldives Nippon Corporation I knew him and his dedication to the Maldivian Fisherman. Your work will inspire younger Maldivians to join in Sodiq's footsteps. We should praise his vision for the Maldives, way before the 2020 vision.

hameed <hameed1956@hotmail.com>
Naifaru, LH Maldives - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 19:04:35 (MDT)

What we see today is once a person goes to prison; they come out of it as drug addicts or criminals even worse than before ensuring good business for NSS drug dealers. Once a person goes to prison, I wish they will come out of it as a better person, having learned ethics, plus with an education and training that will give them employment. Torturing them to death is no solution. Need a more humane approach to this. We have an example within the country, the Islahiya- don’t know the new name. The thing they have to do is, replicate that for adults as well and put up more structures is separate islands (like university towns of a different kind) to accommodate increasing crime population. Their work can be displayed and make them earn an income even when they are in the ‘prison’. So that they are recognized for their achievement by the general population. I’m sure experts in various professions would be glad to contribute in any way they can. Once ‘graduated’ support structure like an agency or office can be setup to help them find jobs and even go to counselling free of charge. This way we will ensure the ‘lost’ children and adults are brought back as better citizens who contribute to their society. This should be the highest priority of any government in Maldives at the moment, in resource allocation. I also wish I could express these ideas in presidents’ office website and local newspapers openly as well. But than I may have to go to the notorious Maldivian prison for treason! Thank you Sappey for giving us the chance to express our ideas and opinions.

Islahiya
Maldives - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 05:44:48 (MDT)

Half of corruption from people in high and low places could be prevented if we have a free media; due to fear of exposure and tainted reputation that will follow. Of course, if it is not true they can always sue the journalists. Whichever way the benefit to the country will be enormous.

Reformer
Maldives - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 05:41:59 (MDT)

Sappe' - Can you guarantee us if you haven't rigged the poll to show that Maumoon should resign? You cant stand to loose this can you? You have gotten yourself so deep way over your head into this mess that you created for yourself, in the name of the people, you are literally drowning in it aren't you?

Ibri
Male', Maldives - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 04:59:32 (MDT)

Current climate tells us there can be no justice and fairness from cradle to the grave and from the ballot boxes to the Courts. Power and money is intoxicating like a drug. Once a person gets used to it they may do anything to hold on to it. That’s the point it will harm the society. That’s why we need to change leaders and power holders before that happens.

Power
Maldives - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 20:39:54 (MDT)

The president has started blaming the public for all the things gone wrong. Youth addicted to drugs because of parents, crimes increasing in Male’ and other islands because of parents etc. He has no part in any of this! In the past, we don’t know how to read and right but there isn’t this increasing trend of crimes and drugs. We never in our life locked doors of the houses. Our customs is over 100 years old and we have always being an open nation to the world and have always been travellers. Perhaps due to us being travellers we are always in worlds’ top in Divorce rate. But still no drug problem until this era. In this era fathers having to work in resorts and seeing their children once a year if they are lucky doesn’t help either. At least in the past, after a day of fishing they will see the children at least once a night. A leader is supposed to ensure a country is in the right development path by being an enabler; of social services, of jobs, good education, Security, judicial services, medial services etc fit to the era a country is in. The fact that you are completely blaming the parents instead of helping them shows how incompetent you have become as a leader. Please give a
chance to someone who will sincerely try to clear the whole mess.

Call of youth
Maldives - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 19:00:22 (MDT)

I cannot agree more with Thimara. I was a custom officer with Mohamed Ali who lives with Yameen. I was transferred to Addu because I informed Shareef that Blue Movies were taken to Yameen's residence and it was rampant in Customs. Many Customs Directors were involved with many other untoward activities including bribes from several sources specially Lily Store. Their ships carry these contrabands and Mohamed Ali delivers them to Yameen and the rest. I also have seen tankers operated from STO carrying these stuff and I was told by my bosses " if you want to work here, just close your eyes".

kuda_haleem <kuda_haleem@hotmail.com>
Male, K Maldives - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 19:00:31 (MDT)

Why are you guys wasting time calling resignation or firing of lead NSS tortures when you know they will never be fired because they may know too much undesirable secrets and can blow the whistle if they are unhappy. Do you believe in tooth fairy and Ranamaari? To hell or heaven or grave, they will go together. Its like Mafia, once in you will never get out of it alive.

Ranamaari
Maldives - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 05:13:34 (MDT)

It's not the Maldivian lawyer this time ..... PEOPLE.. it's happening where they started the SYSTEM called FREEDOM, RULE OF LAW

Judges advised on language use

The guidebook warns judges about using the term "asylum seekers" Judges are being given new guidance on the type of language they should use in court to avoid causing offence. On Wednesday, Lord Chief Justice Lord Woolf will unveil a guidebook dealing with the treatment of race, religion, disability, gender and sexuality.

It suggests using neutral language such as "they" instead of "he or she" and "postal worker" in place of postman.

And the Judicial Studies Board book also gives advice on describing black and Asian people and asylum seekers.

Warning

The expression "visible minorities" is problematic as it implies the existence of invisible minorities, according to the book.

It warns care should be taken with the term "asylum seekers" because it is associated with people who do not have a genuine claim to be refugees and is almost pejorative.

Some phrases such as "sleeping policeman" can be confusing to people from different backgrounds, it says.

The guidance, called the Equal Treatment Bench book, applies to courts and tribunals.

Beybe
USA - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 02:08:55 (MDT)

Dear, Mr. President, Ministers, Judges, members of the parliament and any who are flirting with universal evils please get acquainted with these words.

ETHICAL ( Being in accordance with the accepted principles of right and wrong that govern the conduct of a profession).

JUST (honourable and fair in one's dealings and actions. Consistent with what is morally right).

FAIRNESS (Having or exhibiting a disposition that is free of favouritism or bias).

HONEST ( Not deceptive or fraudulent).

INTEGRITY( Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code).

This is especially for leaders;

EMPOWER (To equip or supply with an ability; enable, To invest with power, especially legal power or official authority).

TRUST (Firm reliance on the integrity, ability, or character of a person or thing’- until proven otherwise. Then get rid of him/her).

Oxford Dictionary
UK - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 18:36:08 (MDT)

The math of 171,000 Rufiyaa (President monthly salary) 2,052,000 million rufiyaa per year which maybe bigger than the budget of an entire island and salary of all employees in offices in male. Why does the president insist on being the minister of finance, etc? Does he know anything on finance and economics. Without being the Minister he can influence because being president makes him chief policy and strategy maker or approver. The deputies, not the president deserve the salaries and the title of a Minister for at least the work they do and that is prevented by greed of Gayyoom.

Greed
Maldives - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 15:37:09 (MDT)

I wanted to share something all your readers would love to hear.

While we live in these remote islands in the far distant corners of this country, we have our ministers spending our money and enjoying afternoons and weekends in specially developed islands from tax payers money for their immediate family members and close relatives.

One of my close friend & relative who happens to live with Yameen and also another was recently working in Funadhoo (Yameen's retreat). All I was told that his "servant" at his residence now a senior customs officer was asked to pick up "Blue Movies (pornography) and contrabands" from Maldivians and few Sri Lankans and to deliver them to Yameen.

There is a big gang who watch this. Among them DG Naseem at Ministry of Trade & Industries, Palestinian businessman Raagib (has been living in Maldives for quite sometime, resides in Henveiru), Abdulla Shahid, Executive Secretary at President's Office, Minister of State for Finance Mr. Jaleel, Major Ibrahim Didi NSS official, Information Minister Ibrahim Maniku, Isthafa Ibrahim Maniku former Executive Director at Defence Ministry and the list goes on. These movies, I am told are in their hundreds, in CDs and videos are widely circulated among these folks. They are kept in a special room at Funadhoo and at times viewed by the maintenance staff as well.

Some of these movies were sent to STO executives who apparently have lost 5 CDs with the name Yameen/FLT Number and the person who imported it. If anyone I have mentioned challenges this please contact me through this forum and I will send you the CDs with a copy to Gayyoom so he can keep them in his island as well.

Thimara <thimara786@yahoo.com.>
Funoddu, Thaa Maldives - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 12:12:03 (MDT)

1994 Gayyoom wrote a letter to all his ministers and senior Police Officers stating that he was aware that many of them were doing things which were prohibited by Islam. He was told by this writer about the daily booze at Zamaalik and the frequent visits of Ministers and Officials to Fathulla's resort. I was an employee for years and I saw their regular drinking, use of drugs and womanizing. I also sent Gayyoom pictures of Jameel drunk with a naked German women in Frankfurt with Universal Director Ahmed Didi. I sent him copies of drug dealers who supply drugs to Jameel and the names of staff who transfer liquor from the resort to various different houses in Male. I have receipts from Theemuge that these letters were in fact delivered to Mr. Adam Naeem. Ismail Faiz and Hussain Mohamed Didi. Gayyoom is not part of the problem of drugs in the Maldives, he is THE problem.

Rameez <rameez-A@hotmail.com>
Male, Maldives - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 17:43:37 (MDT)

Legacy of Maumoon: A drug addicted Generation. Thank you Mr. President. When we were born we did not even know such a thing called drugs existed. Now you are going to waste some of our money on public relations campaign on drugs. We don't need those campaign's to waste our money. If you genuinely want to DO something that will have an effect, use that money to- look into the matter of how drug is imported to the country and to DO something, see what happens to all the drugs NSS catch from dealers and to DO something and to Introduce a First class Rehab/facilities. Also if you want to help youth in this fight, stop monopolising the religion and let them openly debate it, guide them through schools, TV & radio programs-they will be interested. have a mechanism on how to help school failures in getting to mainstream education or learning vocational skills of their choice. If necessary helping through public funding. Or more importantly stop bragging about literacy rates and concentrate on how to increase quality of our education system so that no child is left behind. Participate in international ranking of schools. It will guide you. Don't rank against Ethiopia or some underdeveloped country. Hope you will listen to us zuvaanun (youth) rather than your incompetent advisors to save yourself in the future. Finally stop acting as a dictator and absolute ruler and power holder. That belongs to only GOD, In history of the world you and the Firuanu (pharaoh) contested for that.

Legacy of Gayyoom
Maldives - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 15:38:56 (MDT)

Attorney is going to teach our lawyers how to speak in court while few lawyers existed are graduates of local international institutions. If those in the judiciary really want to help the country they should focus on the President wants to micro manage it for fear it may really deliver justice. They need to let the parliament appoint judges or let judges get elected. there are countless good laws in the constitution but not implemented or are violated because Maumoon doesn't like it. Start respecting and stop violating those laws for a change. Actually we have constitution on paper. Our practical and real constitution is whatever Maumoon says. In future we are going to see lot of cosmetic surgeries which does not address the real causes of the problem and instead waste our money. No wonder our GDP is going to fall unlike other countries in this region. They may even have a cosmetic solution to that- cook the numbers.

Naibu thuthu
Maldives - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 16:09:13 (MDT)

Hi themaldivans. Who is the magufuredhifaivaa meehun your are talking about. Did you mean your dad...oops sorry. I mean did you mean Maumoon, Ilyas, Hameed, Yameen, Seiku Rasheed, Anbaree, Falho or your beloved torturers and drug dealers in NSS. Please be specific.

OOPS!
Maldives - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 20:21:55 (MDT)

Sappe', Ismael here, can you make the site more printer friendly... to circulate an article I have to do lot of printing settings.<here I am talking about from the site itself> if there is a printing button on the site itself the users will find easy and less time consuming :)

Ismael <am0re@hotmail.com>
Male', K. Maldives - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 13:29:24 (MDT)

Thanks for the suggestion. We'll see what we can do about it. - Ed.

To the biggest hypocrite Maumoon Gayyoom:

We know the reason why you haven’t translated the Holy Quran to Dhivehi. You do not want the vast majority of Maldivians understand Allah’s message. You use selected verses of Quran to suppress people and take advantage. You have labelled all those against your as Christians. You are a sick, cheap coward. Here are few verses from the Holy Quran for you and your evil associates. You probably know these and that’s why I call you the biggest hypocrite of our time.

O you who believe! Why do you say that which you do not do? It is deeply abhorrent to Allah that you should say that which you do not do. (Surat as-Saff, 61:2-3)

Be true to Allah's contract when you have agreed to it, and do not break your oaths once they are confirmed and you have made Allah your guarantee. Allah knows what you do. (Surat an-Nahl, 16:91)

Fulfil your contracts. Contracts will be asked about. (Surat al-Isra', 17:34)

You are obsessed by greed for more and more until you go down to your graves... (Surat at-Takathur, 102:1-2)

All might belongs to Allah, to His Messenger, and the believers. But the hypocrites do not know this. (Surat al-Munafiqun, 63:8)

If anyone wants power, all power belongs to Allah. All good words rise to Him, and He raises up all virtuous deeds. But people who plot evil deeds will suffer a harsh punishment. The plotting of such people is profitless. (Surah Fatir, 35:10)

That was only Satan who intimidated his adherents. But do not fear them-fear Me if you are believers. (Surah Al `Imran. 3:175)

Is Allah not enough for His servant? Yet they try to scare you with others apart from Him. If Allah does not guide someone, he has no guide. (Surat az-Zumar, 39:36)

A Maldivian
Maldives - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 10:16:47 (MDT)

Thank you for posting links on the USA prisoner abuse allegations. While this is quite a blow to the cause of democracy around the world, following this issue closely would inform us on ways on how issues like these are handled and dealt with by true democratic societies. How come Gayyoom never allowed his cronies in NSS to testify in from of the parliament on live television after the prison shootings in September last year? How about over the countless reports of prisoner abuse? How come these things are never handled in a public manner where everybody can see it? Instead all we got was a censored report.

Learn from others
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 05:33:24 (MDT)

Hi there, I have heard that the so called Warrant Officer Adam Ibrahim is under arrest for molesting a girl in Police custody. Investigations of the alleged molestation is going on! Can you people check to see if it's true.

Beybe
Male', Maldives - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 04:20:32 (MDT)

Shame on Maldivian journalists who stay politely silent, in the face of a Rape of A Country. They are cheating themselves and their profession by pretending to be journalists. There is no room for that in Maldives. Better find another job or join the reform movement. Are you defenders of truth or defenders of incompetence, mismanagement, slavery, torture, corruption, inequality, unfairness, injustices,? If not speak-up.

Shaakiru
Maldives - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 00:43:04 (MDT)

I thought George Bush is the king of Axis of evil. But reading the type of tortures given by Maldives torturers under the capable guidance of Raessul Jumhooriya Al Usthaaz Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom, it convinces me that Maumoon and his very capable team will give Bush and his team a run for their money. Not only that, Hitler, Pol Pot and Saddam have tough competition in becoming lead tortures of the past 100 years. Compared to our populations, the tortured percentage and advanced techniques used, it will be unbeatable. The American people and Maldivian people need help in saving their country. Our President is great. Earlier he was giving competition to Suharto of Indonesia in plundering public funds. Wonder what kind of president or king he is in competition- next.

Axis of Evil
Maldives - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 20:36:41 (MDT)

You should not give responsible positions to people who are incapable, incompetent and afraid of taking responsibilities. They are naturally weak in character and always blame someone else other than themselves for all their mistakes. They will follow the Bully Rule. That is they don’t know how to use their brain to lead a group of people and instead they have to use their Fists. They may be more than 60 years old but their maturity and intellect is less than even the youngest child without their purity and keenness to understand the world around them. Maybe that’s the kind of people the holy book refers when it said there are some people no matter how educated or informed you think they are, but are blind in their hearts and mind. Unable to think. Just like Abu Jahul. I’m not talking about only one person. Look at all the people who are in the lead positions in our country and decide for yourself who and who fit the bill the most.

Observer
Maldives - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 20:28:38 (MDT)

Hi, what is the problem with the Sandhaanu file. I cannot download it. Can you please look into this matter. Fassngu5 can be downloaded so wondering why sandhaanu12 cannot be. Has it been hacked by NSS??

Sandhaanu reader <hilmy@hotmail.com>
Colombo, Sri Lanka - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 18:55:59 (MDT)

Try again now, it should be fixed. - Ed

Let me first congratulate Dhivehi Observer for the amazing work that you are doing. You guys have done some incredible work in the past months that surely must have given a few sleepless nights along the way to the regime. (The expose' on Ilyas is one that i can think of at the moment).

While you guys have done some incredible work, you also have made some obviously stupid mistakes. I am not going to list them down, in case somebody decides to attack on your weakness. I am sure you know what they are. I have witnessed some calculated damage control here and there and it has worked for the most part. Leaving your self open like this may result in some negative responses.

Having said that, I am aware that this dirty game of politics is still new to some of you guys, but its good to see that you are slowly getting the hang of it. Sappe' seem to be slowly maturing as a politician from when he started as well. Your site has become better now than the somewhat trashy site that it was before.

Anyways, keep up the good work. This is not something that is going to be solved in a few months even a few years. You are in it for the long run if you want to make changes and you have to be resilient and learn from your mistakes. Time is the only real thing you have against Gayyoom. He is old and possibly dying soon. You guys are young and have a lot more to offer. Be smart, you can make this revolution work still.

Advice
Male', Maldives - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 08:48:33 (MDT)

Change the name of Dhidhoo to Male' to get a first class sea wall. All other islands in the Maldives including the regional capitals couldn't even dream of such a protection mechanism which is crucial to protect the island from angry waves. Welcome to the second class citizens club.

Hassan Fulhu
Maldives - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 18:29:15 (MDT)

I admire the art works in your cartoons section, very graphic, grabs attention, and humorous. But, these cartoons represents more then you hope to portray, it has a negative vibe to it. The first art work is two dimensional flat work. bright colours. More comic like, and mostly very childish. But does it suit the website? You have a very corporate design on you home page. And hence posting some of the artworks seem unsuitable as it gives you a less professional look. It seems irrelevant to be posted under your corporate design. The flag. A flag represents a country, it is not owned by the president of the Maldives. But, by the people of the Maldives. The flag represents all of us. its recognised by the whole world. And it is what come to peoples minds first of all when they hear the name of our country. Then arises the issue of respect. The respect that our flag deserves. It is on all the legends of all the world maps. And it is hung on all the walls of all the house owned by people who are aware of current issues. These are the people who you aiming to win. When you mock the flag they are the people who'll look down on you. RED 'blood of heroes' GREEN 'prosperity' WHITE 'peace and our faith' it represents the faith of our fore fathers, which we have been holding on to, to this day. And that is also what we have to pass on to our offsprings. In the name of our faith. The art work could portray more political issues without the vulgarity towards all that the flag represents. Some of the art work portray the change of our faith. The general public may not get the same message that the artist is trying portray. An average person's mind could turn judgemental towards the art work, why? A design should fit to generations. The target audience here is a generation with a strong faith. Some of these artworks represents the change of this faith that these people have been holding on to as a belief. Thus some of these messages in the art works will remain ambiguous, but due to the portrayal of change of faith in some of the artworks may trigger peoples minds to weigh more against your success. If these are neglected, time maybe lost in attaining your goal.

Anonymous Art Critique

KL, Malaysia - Wednesday, May 5, 2004 8:45 PM

Thank you for the kind words and advise, it is much appreciated. I feel that some of the pictures in our cartoon section has bothered you quite a bit. If I am not mistaken they are the ones that have a cross in our flag instead of the crescent. While one of them may reflect a negative message (we have removed that one) the other does not necessarily have a negative message. I assure you these works does not promote any other faith system to Maldivians. They are intended as is, as a satirical look at our situation (reflecting the hypocrisy of our religious leaders). Satire has a way of uplifting people in the worst of times. As for the "2 dimensional picture" (I don't see what else a picture can be unless we change the medium that it is presented in) of brutal creature resembling Gayyoom wearing our flag while brandishing a sword, we feel that it sums up the situation of Maldives better than any other picture on the page. The clothing that resembles the Maldivian flag is simply a metaphor for the our nation (including its constitution) that Gayyoom has fashioned as a nice fitting gown that he wears today to remain in power by any means possible. Again if you look closely one more time at the said picture, you will notice that the flag while its been worn is tattered and torn as well (the duration that Gayyoom has been in power has left our nation tattered and torn while it has been in the service of a single person). Finally to end my response to you -- A picture is worth a thousand words. It is a very strong in your face, straight message that resonates very strongly about our state of affairs - Ed.

P.S. to all readers - Feel free to disagree with me. So much more can be said about the cartoons. Please send in your comments to us by email or the submission form from the top of this page.

Its been nearly 03 years since the sea wall of Dhidhoo the capital of Ha. Alif been demolished by the waves and the current regime has failed to reconstruct it until now. This happened 03 years ago due to the quality of construction material they have used.

Suja <abdshuja@hotmail.com>
Dhidhoo, Ha. Maldives - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 06:17:43 (MDT)

The key players in the anti-current regime group are openly voicing their opinions through various forms in spite of huge risks involved. On the other hand, in pro-regime front the key players are in hiding. When you go to their sites like antimdp, Themaldivian you wont know who is the person doing such a great job of running the site, that is in spite of the fact that they will have the blessings of the government, hence no banning the site and no State Sponsored Torturing. We don’t mind reading articles from all sides. We would like to see 'About us' and 'Who' in their sites and get to know them. But why are pro-groups reluctant to come out in the open? Do they have something to hide? People wont trust people in hiding. Could it be that they are NSS, relatives and loyalists who are benefiting the most in the current environment. Or perhaps, there is something deeper in their conscience (that little inner voice which tells us good, bad, right, wrong even though sometimes we try not to listen) which tells them they are defending a LIE. Thus, they are ashamed and hesitant to show themselves. If this is the case, hope one day their ‘inner voice’ will conquer their actions.

Mystery
Maldives - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 08:22:58 (MDT)

Newspaper publishers must be a journalism graduates? What kind of graduates are atolls development minister, transport minister, construction minister, arts and culture minister? Why don't you have a rule prohibiting all forms of journalism as the way you want it without beating around the bush.

Disgusted
Maldives - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 03:12:13 (MDT)

We have allowed a link to MDP web site on Dhiraagu "Maldives on the web
directory":

Web Design & Online Information

Creative Graphics Communication http://www.cgc.net

A Company Pvt Ltd http://www.e-maldives.com

Maldivian Underground http://www.munet.net

habarey <123@dhiraagu.com.mv>
USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 22:43:07 (MDT)

Link to your site in dhivehinet.net.mv

Web Design & Online Information

Creative Graphics Communication http://www.cgc.net

A Company Pvt Ltd http://www.e-maldives.com

Maldivian Underground http://www.munet.net

Karen <karen@ausnet.net.au>
Canberra, Australia - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 22:20:12 (MDT)

Please learn the lessons from Majeedhee Magu fiasco before building The bridge between Male’ and Hulhumale. If done improperly or to serve present situation without thinking 50-100 years from now on, millions of dollars and thousands of lives could be lost and wasted.

Umaru
India - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 20:48:56 (MDT)

How to fight corruption Maumoon style: Imprison and harass anyone who dare to
expose it. Especially the journalists.

Thuthu
Maldives - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 18:11:30 (MDT)

Patriotism is not loyalty to a person or a group. It is loyalty to the country. It is defending values and aspirations of that country’s people. It is working for betterment of society and protecting its people from tyranny of corrupt practices. People who demand loyalty to them no matter how harmful their activities are; asking us to be disloyal to the country. We should have the courage to say no in their face for the sake of the country and our future.

Who are the real traitors?
Maldives - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 22:52:15 (MDT)

look here...I don't care about MDP or Maumoon or Ilyas or any thing. I'm just a normal teenage youth in Maldives. What I feel is all of us are living somewhat in a prison. Unable to express our views in a state of terror. Whether Maumoon's policies are good or not I don't really know. But what I know is my freedom he couldn't jus take away just like that. Drug addicted Muslim leaders or other people. I think we all should let Maldivians taste the real meaning of rule of people. We haven't tasted that fruit yet. Never. We have been used to this absolute monarchy system from the beginning of time. What I get from the people opposing to democracy here is that they don't really know or want democracy here. What I and most of my friends know is we don't like Maumooncracy

Maumoon <mumoon@nasreen.com>
Male', henveyru Maldives - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 03:14:19 (MDT)

Some dictators learn their fate the hard way. Now it is time for Gayyoom to show he is really going to make a meaningful change or just continue his brutal dictatorship, before, we make him listen to all of us who wants CHANGE and a better life. If we cannot change this regime through democratic process, we will soon have no choice but to look for alternatives as we cannot watch and wait until the coffers are empty. Sometimes we need more than Maumoon bashing but some sacrifice to get Maumoon behind us. We are now looking at all "options".

Thuraakunu <Huravee@yahoo.com.uk>
Madras, TN India - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 21:57:52 (MDT)

Addu Meehen in a theMaldivian says 'If Maumoon brings those changes he promised and sacks the crooks in his cabinet just in time for election he has a very good chance of living another 5 years in that multi million dollar palace' Agreed, but he also has to make sure votes will be rigged and people especially the katheebs and atoll chiefs including the island folks will be intimidated before the election. Definitely he will stay in power. besides he will employee the same corrupt people he sacked after the election like he always do. so they don't need to worry. haven't you heard a Dhivehi saying, landayaa vaany landyaa ey' so corrupt people torturers, they all need each other and stick together.

Landaa
Maldives - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 19:32:44 (MDT)

Maumoon says "lets get them together and imprison all those Christians". anybody who says no to Maumoon is a Christian. So get started.

a bloke
Maldives - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 14:46:52 (MDT)

I just wonder when Maumoon will stop using Islam as a tool to strengthen his grip on power. He should realise that there are people like Fareed who are more qualified than him in religion affairs and Islamic philosophy, who quite openly say that Maumoon is not only a brutal dictator but a hypocrite, which is quite obvious to any person. He is not an authority on Islam and he should stop hiding his unequivocal support to terrorist groups such as Hamas; and Al-Qaeda; who are not fighting an Islamic war; Islam is a religion of tolerance, love and respect for humans, regardless of their faith.

Open your minds and think of ways to get rid of this merciless hypocrite and free the Maldives from his claws.

Adam Abdulla <maldivian@hotmail.com >
Male' - Maldives - Saturday, May 1, 2004 at 11:18:51 (MDT)

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