To earn respect, leaders must first show respect: Ali Hussain
12 ސެޕްޓެމްބަރު 2026 | ހޮނިހިރު 07:47Former Member of Parliament Ali Hussain stated that societal respect can only be earned when leaders show respect to others, emphasizing that this change must begin with President Muizzu. Criticizing the President for allegedly disregarding the Constitution, state institutions, and citizens' rights, Hussain further asserted that the President must apologize for the treatment of former President Yameen.
Legal expert and former Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, Ali Hussain, speaking on a TV talk show. | Raajje MV
Former Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency and legal expert Ali Hussain has stated that if those in power wish to earn the respect of the community, they must first learn to show respect themselves, adding that this change must begin with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Speaking on a televised talk show, Ali Hussain raised concerns regarding the declining level of respect within society. He questioned who was responsible for this erosion of values and how the trend originated. Recalling the slogan "Give Respect, Earn Respect," which was widely used in schools during former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s administration, he noted that if the President begins to show respect to others, he will receive it in return. Ali Hussain further pointed out that while the President claims respect has vanished from the nation, the underlying reality is the President's own lack of trust in anyone.
Furthermore, he alleged that those in power, particularly the President, show no respect for individuals, established systems, the Constitution, or even their own campaign pledges. Highlighting the Fushidhiggaru Lagoon project, Ali stated that despite assurances that not a single cent of public funds would be spent, the project was launched illegally—bypassing the state budget and halting lagoon projects initiated by the previous administration. He further noted that while MTCC had estimated the work at approximately $250,000, the current costs have surged to $600 million. Ali argued that the lack of transparency regarding the remaining funds is further evidence of a blatant disregard for the established system.
Ali Hussain further stated that there is a complete lack of respect for the fundamental rights of citizens and the freedom of expression, noting that even the opportunity to speak out regarding the dollar crisis has recently been restricted. He also remarked that the President rose to power by utilizing the image of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. He added that given the disrespectful manner in which the former leader was treated after the current administration took office, the President must now show respect to Yameen and issue a formal apology.
Emphasizing that respect must first be rooted in the Constitution and the state's legal framework, Ali Hussain stated that recent events within the People's Majlis demonstrate the President holds no regard or respect for the legislative body.
