Minister Ihusan reacts with anger, personal attacks, and threats when questioned regarding alleged video recording of Akram and Waheed

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan has reacted with visible anger, personal remarks, and threats when questioned about his decision to release a video involving Akram Kamaludeen, a former State Minister for Housing, and MDP Deputy Chairperson Ibrahim Waheed. The Minister had accused the two opposition figures of filming his wife and child, but faced scrutiny over whether the video was released following a formal investigation that proved the allegations.

During a press conference held at the President's Office on Thursday, a RaajjeTV journalist questioned the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology regarding the justification for sharing a video of private individuals on his official X account. The journalist inquired on what grounds the Minister had posted the footage, which alleged that the individuals had filmed the Minister’s wife and child. Furthermore, the journalist questioned whether a formal investigation had been conducted to verify the allegations and prove that the individuals in the video were indeed responsible for the act before the footage was publicized.

Responding to these questions, Minister Ihusan began by stating that one of the individuals who recorded the video is affiliated with RaajjeTV. Visibly frustrated, the Minister emphasized that the matter involves a minor and that the discussion should not focus on adults.

Minister Ihusan stated that the video was not recorded because the individuals involved were his wife and child, but rather out of concern regarding the security detail assigned to his family due to his position as Home Minister. He further noted that security is provided based on formal security assessments. The Minister added that if there are any concerns or questions regarding these arrangements, they should be directed to the relevant authorities.

"They were hiding while filming this video, which was recorded right in front of my residence, directly under one of the building's cameras. If a proper investigation is conducted, the footage from two cameras at the house clearly shows the two individuals involved in the filming. It is deeply concerning that during the holy month of Ramadan, instead of engaging in the acts of worship expected in the afternoon, they chose to engage in such irresponsible behavior. We will speak out against those who commit such acts in the Maldives, particularly when they infringe upon the dignity and rights of children. I will personally continue to address these issues moving forward. Furthermore, if the individual involved is a family member of an official or if this harassment is related to someone's professional capacity, such matters should be addressed through official channels and accounts."

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan

Furthermore, Minister Ihusan stated that no request has been made to investigate the matter as a criminal case. However, noting media reports indicating that they intend to file a defamation lawsuit regarding the issue, the Minister affirmed that he is fully prepared to be held accountable. He further questioned whether they themselves would be able to answer for their own actions.

Based on my assessment so far, I have not yet requested to seek damages through the courts or filed for a criminal investigation. However, I will not hesitate to take such action if the situation warrants it. It is unacceptable for grown men to target children under the age of ten or drag the families of state officials into matters related to their official duties. If this continues, we will no longer respond with such decency. While we respect every citizen of the Maldives, one must not infringe upon the rights of others while exercising their own. The Constitution defines both rights and their limitations; rights do not exist in a vacuum. They are accompanied by boundaries. An individual's right ends where it begins to violate the rights of another. Furthermore, these two individuals are former high-ranking state officials. They have served as Managing Directors of major state-owned enterprises and held the position of State Minister within government ministries.

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan

Minister Ihusan stated that when an offense is committed, one must either apologize or take corrective action. He further emphasized that all necessary measures will be taken to prevent such incidents.