PNC Downplays Terror Attack Comments by State Minister

The ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) downplayed remarks by a state minister who accused the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) of planning a terror attack targeting a tourist establishment.  

During a rally held last night, Mohamed Nihad, a state minister for tourism, alleged that the MDP, in collaboration with unions, was planning an attack on international resorts in Malé Atoll. The alleged motive, according to Nihad, was to disrupt the government’s milestone achievement of two million tourist arrivals, expected this week.  

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In a press release issued moments ago, the PNC refuted Nihad’s claims, saying that the minister’s remarks stemmed from concerns about potential opposition-led rallies at resorts in Malé Atoll. 

“In his remarks, the State Minister expressed serious concerns regarding reports of planned rallies by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) at resorts in the Malé Atoll, describing such actions as a direct terrorist threat on the tourism sector and the economy at large.”

“The PNC strongly believes that no responsible political party or civil society organisation in the Maldives would engage in activities that undermine the tourism industry or inflict lasting harm on the nation’s economy,” the statement read.  

The ruling party emphasised that all individuals and organisations must act within the confines of the law. Any actions breaching legal boundaries, it warned, would face appropriate responses from the relevant authorities.  

Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s tourism sector, the PNC said: “Maintaining the Maldives as a safe, secure, and peaceful destination for tourists is a top priority. Protecting the investments of stakeholders in the tourism sector and ensuring the continuity of the Maldives’ reputation as a world-class destination remain paramount.”  

The party concluded by urging all parties to refrain from actions that could jeopardise the country’s peace, stability, and economic prosperity.  

The opposition MDP issued a statement condemning Nihad’s comments earlier today, describing it as baseless and damaging to the tourism industry.