Lies and the spread of misinformation are rampant in society and have, at times, been extremely detrimental to the state, President Mohamed Muizzu said on Saturday. He was speaking at an event to commemorate the 898th anniversary of the Maldives’ embrace of the Islamic faith.
Muizzu said lies and the spread of misinformation are a “great detriment” to Maldivian society, and those who spread lies are doing so for worldly gain and monetary greed.
“If you look at these types of crimes, just lying and spreading false news, it shows a huge failing in today’s society. Many people are busy in the trading of lies, libel, and slander for temporary, worldly gain—for a small amount of money,” he said.
The President said the entire state has suffered “extremely” due to the spread of false news.
“Sometimes the spread of false news has caused immense damage to the entire Maldivian state,” he said.
He also urged society not to spread lies and falsehoods.
“Each of you should resolve not to participate in lying, spreading false news and insults. Not to spend the provisions and wealth given to us by Allah for such destruction,” he said.
Muizzu went on to relate that the Maldives converted to Islam at a time when the regional power balance was at a disadvantage to the country.
“The Maldivian people converted to the Islamic faith at a time when the Maldives was continuously attacked and persecuted by a regional power. Maldivians completely removed themselves from the faith and culture of the threatening power” President Muizzu said.