The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has called for an urgent investigation into remarks made by State Minister for Tourism Mohamed Nihad, who accused the party of plotting a terrorist attack targeting international-brand resorts near Malé.
In a press statement on Tuesday, the MDP condemned Nihad’s allegations as baseless and politically motivated. The party criticised Nihad for making such claims without evidence, emphasising that his remarks could damage the Maldives’ tourism industry, a vital sector for the country’s economy.
“These allegations are serious and irresponsible, especially coming from a state minister of tourism,” the MDP said. “We call on relevant agencies to take these remarks seriously and ensure the safety and security of tourists, industry employees, and businesses serving the sector.”
The party added that the tourism industry has already faced significant financial losses this year, partly due to what it described as harmful rhetoric from senior government officials. The MDP warned that such statements could discourage tourists from choosing the Maldives as a destination, further compounding the industry’s challenges.
Nihad, speaking at a Progressive National Congress (PNC) rally on Monday, accused the MDP of plotting an attack on three resorts as part of a campaign to disrupt the government’s target of two million tourist arrivals this year. He alleged the Labour Union, which he claimed is affiliated with the MDP, was involved in the plot.
Both the MDP and the Labour Union have strongly denied the accusations. The Labour Union reaffirmed its focus on protecting workers’ rights and called the claims unfounded.
Critics have questioned the government’s failure to provide evidence to support Nihad’s allegations, calling for a thorough investigation to verify the claims and ensure safety of tourists.
Nihad, a former member of the MDP, switched his political allegiance to the PNC after being offered a state minister position.