3 religious scholars suspended for promoting extremism in the Maldives

Islamic Minister Dr. Ahmed Zahir Ali is seen in this photo speaking to reporters during a press conference. The Ministry decided to suspend the licenses of three religious scholars for promoting extremism in the Maldives on December 17, 2019. (Sun Photo/Fayaz Moosa)

The Islamic Ministry has temporarily suspended the licenses of three local religious scholars for advocating a specific agenda in situations of contrast in religious topics and promoting extremism.

The scholars have been named as:

Abdul Raheem Mohamed from Manadhooge, N. Lhohi
Jaufar Fazi from Dhekunuge, S. Meedhoo
Mohamed Hassan from Red Sea, G.Dh. Thinadhoo

A statement by the Islamic Ministry last night read that the rhetoric of the three scholars created divisions and polarization in the society that could influence and result in the commission of violent, cruel, degrading and inhumane acts by followers.

The statement also read that the rhetoric of the scholars “encouraged taking part in civil wars waged abroad”.

The licenses were suspended under the Religious Unity Act of Maldives to protect the religious unity of Maldivians

By Ahmedulla Abdul Hadi

Journalist