Govt. disclose receipts on transfer of telethon funds for Palestine

Foreign Ministry, on Sunday night, disclosed the receipts on the transfer of MVR 19 million raised in funds for Palestine in a nationwide telethon which shows that the funds were transferred on August 20^th.

The one-day telethon held on June 12^th, under the slogan “Falastheenaa Eku Dhivehin,” which translates to “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine,” was organized by the Public Service Media (PSM), in partnership with local media, at President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s request.

In a statement on Sunday night, Foreign Ministry said the funds were transferred to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on August 20^th and in this trajectory, shared receipts as proof.

As per the statement, USD 1.2 million, amounting to MVR 12 million, was raised for Palestine in the telethon. The sum was verified by an audit from Crowe Maldives LLP.

Foreign Ministry noted that the government was currently in discussion with UNRWA regarding short-term and long-term relief programs and projects the funds can be injected into.

The Ministry further said the donation of such a huge sum of money from Maldivians is a testament to the nation’s support for Palestine’s sovereignty and independence and evidence of Maldivians’ unwavering support for Palestinians.

The Ministry reiterated that the Maldivian government strongly condemns Israel’s ongoing genocidal act towards Palestinians, citing it to be a violation of international laws and humanitarian laws.

Notably, Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel was served notice last Monday to appear before the Parliament to inquire whether the telethon funds were transferred.

It was opposition MDP’s South Galolhu MP Meekail Naseem who sought to question the minister regarding the matter.

In this regard, he requested to inquire the reason behind delays if the funds have not been handed over so far, as four months have passed since the telethon.

Meekail’s request came after the Foreign Ministry, in August, already confirmed the funds were directly transferred to the bank account of UNRWA through the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA).

The telethon to raise funds for Palestine was well received by the public and saw significant donations from government offices, state-owned companies and private individuals.