Following widespread public criticism over lack of austerity measures amid ongoing conflict, government to limit installation of Eid decorative lights to cities only

The government has announced that Eid lights will now only be illuminated in cities, following widespread public criticism for failing to implement cost-cutting measures amidst the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

During a press conference held on Thursday by the committee established by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to coordinate war-related matters, Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel announced that following Cabinet discussions, the government has decided to install Eid decorative lighting exclusively in cities.

Noting that a prolonged conflict would inevitably lead to further challenges, Minister Khaleel stated that the situation is being continuously monitored and that additional cost-cutting measures are being implemented.

However, he did not specify any further measures taken.

Following cabinet discussions regarding the Eid lights, the President has decided not to proceed with the illumination of islands for the upcoming Eid al-Fitr. The initiative will now be limited to the Maldives' five cities, where decorations will be displayed only at specific designated locations.

Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel

Furthermore, in response to a journalist's inquiry regarding President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's decision to provide discounts ensuring Ramadan electricity bills do not exceed MVR 400, Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer confirmed that the discounts will be granted and noted that the expenditure has already been accounted for in the budget.

He therefore stated that no difficulties would arise from it. However, Minister Zameer noted that other expenditures are being strictly controlled.

When the President discussed last year's budget with us and provided his instructions, the discount for this year was already an expenditure accounted for in the budget. This was a pre-planned initiative. Therefore, it will not result in any direct changes to the budget.

Minister of Finance Moosa Zameer

Major world powers are implementing numerous austerity measures to curb spending in response to the ongoing global conflicts. However, the Maldives government is facing widespread criticism for failing to take adequate action. While the decision was made to limit Eid lighting to cities, the public is expressing concern over the lack of government seriousness regarding the global situation, particularly as Male' City prepares for three days of lavish, large-scale Eid celebrations.