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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