An issue has surfaced regarding the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) failing to settle a bill of MVR 300K with 'Amari Dhaka' hotel in Bangladesh, where the national team stayed for a preliminary round match in last month's World Cup qualifiers.
Mihaaru's investigation reveals that the national football team owes USD 19,651.38 (MVR 303,000) to the hotel, as indicated in the invoice sent by the hotel on October 15. Despite being informed about the delay on October 19, FAM assured the funds would be allocated by October 21.
The hotel, in a letter to FAM General Secretary Hussain Jawaz, requested payment by Wednesday, warning of a 15 percent additional charge every 15 days in case of non-payment. The hotel also brought the matter to the attention of the Maldives Embassy in Bangladesh.
FAM chose not to respond to Mihaaru, while Maldives' Ambassador to Bangladesh, Shirzimat Sameer, confirmed the non-payment issue and suggested seeking details through the Youth Ministry and FAM.
A statement from Youth Minister Ahmed Mahloof acknowledged difficulties faced by FAM in settling the amount, stating the government will assume responsibility if the payment was not made.
Maldives' loss to Bangladesh in the World Cup qualifier added to FAM's challenges, including financial issues and an ongoing police investigation.
Sign In