Children Traumatized and Terrified: We Will Not Protest Where the President Visits!

Reports indicate that authorities have begun taking retaliatory measures against individuals and concerned parents following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to Sri Lanka. These actions target those who have voiced concerns regarding the management of Sosun Villa, the Maldivian Educational and Cultural Centre (MECC) in Colombo, as well as parents complaining about the declining quality of education and teaching standards at the facility.

Since the current administration took office, Maldivians residing in Sri Lanka have reportedly faced significant challenges in obtaining visas and accessing US dollars. As public dissatisfaction grows, reports suggest that measures are now being taken specifically targeting those who have been vocal about these difficulties.

Speaking to RaajjeTV’s "Fashaairu" program, a Maldivian resident in Sri Lanka stated that despite having lived there for a significant period, Sri Lankan police and national security personnel were dispatched to their homes following the announcement of the President's visit. The resident reported that authorities have been taking statements and forcing Maldivians to sign documents pledging not to attend the President's scheduled meeting.

The reception was held at The Grand Ballroom of Hilton Colombo on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

According to his account, he returned home to find police officers already present. They presented several photographs of Maldivian nationals, including himself. After confirming his identity, the officers warned him that he was prohibited from attending the President's meeting and that he would be arrested if he attempted to go. He further noted that the individuals pictured in the photographs were all known critics of the government.

According to the individual, the photograph used was the same one submitted with their application to the Maldivian High Commission in Sri Lanka. They further noted that the authorities were already in possession of their permanent address. Consequently, many are alleging that this is a targeted act of intimidation carried out under the direct instructions of the High Commission, specifically in connection with the President's visit.

"When I arrived home, there were six police officers inside. My young child was crying, and everyone was visibly terrified. They told me, 'You cannot attend the invitation on the 5th. If you go there, we will arrest you.' They then said, 'This is our final word to you; remember that you live here.' When I asked what the problem was and who had sent them, they replied that they were sent by my 'guardians.' By that, they clearly meant the High Commission."

A resident of Sri Lanka

Providing details of the incident, one individual reported that Sri Lankan police entered several homes, conducted thorough raids, and scattered belongings. They further alleged that residents were forced to sign statements written in Sinhala, which explicitly prohibited them from attending the President’s reception, despite having received official invitations. Members of the public have accused the Embassy of orchestrating these actions to prevent reports of its alleged misconduct from reaching the President.

"They presented us with a statement written in Sinhala and told me to sign it. I told them I didn't understand Sinhala. They then said I could take a photo of it and that they would provide a translation. However, I didn't trust them, as so many people have been deceived in similar situations before. But considering the circumstances at the time and the fear my children were in, I signed it just to get them to leave as quickly as possible."

A resident of Sri Lanka

Maldivians who have resided in Sri Lanka for many years without any criminal record have condemned the actions of the Sri Lankan police, allegedly carried out at the request of the Maldivian government, describing them as uncivilized and beneath contempt. They further highlighted concerns that such actions could shift the perspective of the Sri Lankan police toward the Maldivian community, potentially compromising their safety and security. Families also shared that their young children have been left traumatized and living in fear.

He explained that despite having numerous concerns, they had no intention of staging a protest at the President's location. He noted that while the police took this sudden action, these individuals are people who would need to visit Sri Lankan authorities as early as tomorrow for various matters, such as visa renewals. Consequently, he highlighted that this incident has left a significant stain on their records.

"What saddens us is that we had no intention of going there to protest upon the President's arrival. We were living our lives peacefully here, and now a dark stain has been cast over our existence. We are currently living in Sri Lanka as if we are 'wanted' fugitives. Is there any greater sorrow, grief, or humiliation that could be inflicted upon a Maldivian citizen? This is far too much. My children are traumatized and living in fear; my youngest child did not stop crying even at midnight, terrified that his father might be taken away. What possible threat could we pose to President Muizzu?"

A resident of Sri Lanka

When questioned regarding the matter, the Maldivian Ambassador to Sri Lanka denied any involvement. However, members of the public contend that the Sri Lankan police could not have obtained information regarding the internal grievances at Sosun Villa without the embassy's involvement. Consequently, they repeatedly assert that this is a calculated act of intimidation orchestrated directly from within the embassy.

According to reports, the invitations for the reception hosted by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to meet with the Maldivian community residing in Sri Lanka were issued under the name of High Commissioner Masood Imad.