We must protect Maldives from crimes executed to tarnish our Islamic identity: Minister Shaheem

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated that everyone must remain steadfast in protecting the Maldives from crimes executed to tarnish the country's Islamic identity.

The Minister made these remarks in a post on X following the viral spread of a video showing a gay wedding ceremony held at a resort.

Regarding this issue, Minister Shaheem stated that action must be taken against those who engage in such acts in violation of the Constitution of the Maldives and other relevant laws.

Additionally, the Minister stated that we must stay resolute in safeguarding the Maldives from such crimes carried out to push the country into materialism and pollute its Islamic character.

Following the social media circulation of a video showing a gay marriage ceremony being conducted at a Maldivian resort, the Maldives Police Service initiated an investigation into the matter yesterday.

Police stated that they are looking into the necessary details surrounding the video that recently circulated on social media.

Furthermore, because same-sex marriage is not legally permitted in the Maldives, the police informed that they have been investigating the case since it was brought to their attention.

Noting that Islam is the state religion of the Maldives, police highlighted that such acts are strictly contrary to religious and Sharia principles.

Similarly, police stated that this act entirely violates Maldivian laws as well as the general social and moral standards of Maldivian society.

In connection with this, police urged all parties to refrain from engaging in such illegal acts in the Maldives.

In particular, all relevant parties, including resort and guesthouse management as well as foreign employees working in various positions, have been advised not to allow or facilitate such activities.

Police further stated that all necessary legal measures will be taken against individuals who commit acts that violate Islamic principles and the laws of the Maldives.