State Minister at the Ministry of Tourism Mohamed Nihad, who spoke at a rally of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) held on Monday night, accusing the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) of planning a terrorist attack to destroy the island nation’s tourism sector, has been suspended.

RaajjeMV understands that Nihad was suspended for making these statements while holding a senior government position.

Speaking at a campaign site gathering held by the main ruling PNC on Monday night, the former MP for Feydhoo constituency Nihad, stressed that as efforts are underway to welcome two million tourists to the Maldives this year by next Thursday, MDP is leading efforts to obstruct tourism.

Nihad alleged that when MDP requested to hold a meeting at three resorts in one lagoon near capital Malé City, they were informed that it couldn't be held as the resorts were fully booked during the period. However, the MDP had threatened to enter the resort without permission.

MDP has denied these allegations and called for an investigation into the matter.

In a statement released by the party, it said that they condemn in the strongest terms the false statements made by State Minister of Tourism Ministry Mohamed Nihad at the PNC gathering held on Monday night, claiming that MDP was planning a terrorist attack targeting the Maldives' tourism industry.