President's family to sue MDP over remarks about son

The family of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has decided to sue opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, activist Mariyam Zubair (Mandhi) and the party itself over remarks made in a protest against the President's son.

In a press conference held today by the family, their lawyer, former Attorney General Azima Shakoor read out a statement from First Lady Sajidha Mohamed.

The statement said that due to differences in political ideology with the President, false statements regarding their son is being circulated. She alleged that in this, the remarks made adversely affect the children's education, future and social development.

As every child is protected under Maldivian laws, the First Lady said that MDP's remarks contravene this and affect the children's reputation and dignity.

Hence, as a mother, she is forced to take this action, the statement reads.

At the press conference, Azima accused MDP of spreading hate speech through circulating photos of the President's youngest child and other photos, and asserted that action will be taken against this.

Azima said that the matter would be taken to court, adding that the First Lady is taking this step as a mother to protect her children.

While Mariyam Zubair made the comments being referred to, Fayyaz is also being sued, in his case for supporting the comments and sharing them on social media platform X. The party is being sued as they must bear responsibility for the series of protests, and events that occur within these protests, Azima said.

Azima said that the decision at present is to pursue civil action against the matter. She said that the family will not intervene in any criminal investigation that is carried out into the matter.

Azima said that the case is being reviewed further, and if necessary, civil proceedings will be carried out against further actors as well.