Public funds wasted: MVR 1.5m spent on drone show glorifying Pres. Muizzu!
4 ޖެނުއަރީ 2026 | އާދީއްތަ 05:32A 15-minute drone show featuring 600 drones at Hulhumalé Central Park portrayed President Muizzu's silhouette, sparking criticism for promoting personality cult tactics and contradicting Islamic teachings on depicting living beings. The event drew public outrage over wasteful spending during an economic crisis, with the government yet to issue a statement on the controversy.
President Muizzu's silhouette was showcased at the drone show held in Hulhumalé on New Year's eve, nodding to the habit of authoritarian leaders to highlight the greatness of rulers without taking the country's economic situation into account.
Reports have revealed that USD 100,000 of public funds were spent on a drone show in Hulhumalé on New Year’s eve, intended to celebrate the new year and promote President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
At the official exchange rate, this amounts to over MVR 1.5 million.
Sources who spoke to RaajjeMV revealed that approximately 600 drones were used for the 15-minute performance, including 75 "pyro-drones" equipped with pyrotechnics and fireworks to enhance the aerial display.
The event, held at Hulhumalé Central Park, showcased a portrayal of President Muizzu as an unparalleled leader in Maldivian history. However, critics argue that, as the government enters its third year, spending millions of public funds to project the president’s image in the sky is unjustifiable.
The depiction of President Muizzu’s silhouette during the show has provoked widespread backlash on social media, with many drawing parallels to the extravagant tactics of authoritarian regimes aimed at elevating a leader's image.
In addition to this, some have raised concerns that the display contradicts Islamic teachings. The Supreme Council for Islamic Fatwa has previously ruled that creating or displaying statues, monuments, or similar depictions of living beings is not permissible in Islam. Critics argue that the drone show, which effectively immortalized the president's image, goes against this religious guidance, prompting calls for the Fatwa Council to investigate the matter.
At a time when the Maldives is grappling with one of its most difficult economic periods, the public has expressed outrage over what they perceive as wasteful government spending on such extravagant events. Despite the growing discontent, the government has yet to release an official statement on the issue.
