Using rhetoric that implies political opponents are not Muslims will destroy the nation's social fabric: Shahid
27 ޖުލައި 2026 | ހޯމަ 10:26Abdulla Shahid warned that using rhetoric that implies political opponents are not Muslims undermines the nation's social fabric and could lead to dangerous consequences. Emphasizing that the debate over the Maldives' religious identity was settled long ago, he urged leaders to refrain from weaponizing religion for political gain.
Abdulla Shahid speaking at an MDP rally. | RaajjeMV
Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has stated that while Maldivians have embraced Islam for centuries, using rhetoric that implies political opponents are not Muslims will unravel the country's social fabric.
Speaking on RaajjeTV's "Fashaairu" program, Shahid stated that the Maldives has remained steadfast in the faith of Islam ever since the country embraced the religion in 1153 AD.
Shahid stated that it is unacceptable for a Head of State to use rhetoric implying that their political opponents are not Muslims, regardless of any political differences that may exist between them.
When such rhetoric is employed, the very fabric of our nation begins to tear. As these divisions widen, it creates the environment for these types of issues to emerge.Abdulla Shahid
Shahid further stated that the consequences of such actions have been witnessed in the Maldives before, leading to extremely detrimental outcomes.
Shahid stated that the debate over which religion should be practiced in the Maldives is entirely unnecessary, as the matter has long been settled. He emphasized that Maldivians have embraced the noble faith of Islam for centuries and stressed that no opportunity should be given to reopen such a debate.
Shahid stated that, by the grace of Almighty Allah, Islam will always prevail in the Maldives and that the people will remain steadfast in defending the faith.
