OPD services suspended as First Lady Sajidha attends inauguration of KRH’s new Emergency Room

Outpatient Department (OPD) services at Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital (KRH) were completely suspended today following the arrival of First Lady Sajidha Mohamed to the city for the inauguration of the hospital’s new Emergency Room (ER).

When "RaajjeMV" contacted Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital to verify reports regarding the matter, the hospital confirmed that OPD services have been suspended today.

Essential healthcare services, which a vast majority of the residents in Haa Dhaalu Atoll and the entire Thiladhunmathi region rely upon, were suspended to hold this ceremony directly within the hospital courtyard—an area typically bustling with patients seeking medical care. This uncivilized act by the government is a clear demonstration of prioritizing political showmanship over the fundamental rights and well-being of patients.

Many observers are characterizing this initiative as a political stunt orchestrated by the government to gain leverage ahead of the upcoming local council elections. It is noteworthy that holding such ceremonies after suspending essential healthcare services—the most fundamental public necessity—on the eve of an election highlights a profound lack of sincerity on the part of the administration.

This is merely a performance staged specifically for the election. It is unacceptable to hold political rallies within hospital grounds while patients are being denied medical care.

Speaking to RaajjeMV, a member of the public said.

First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and several senior government officials are expected to attend the opening ceremony of the new Emergency Room. However, there is growing public concern over the continuation of "ribbon-cutting" politics ahead of the elections, as citizens feel their most fundamental rights are being sacrificed in the process.