Former Male’ City Deputy Mayor Ahmed Areesh has alleged that the traditional broadcasting of Eid Takbir across the capital’s streets has ceased, attributing the change to the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) gaining influence within the local administration.

In a post shared on the social media platform X, Areesh noted that during the mayoral tenure of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the sound of Takbir resonated throughout the Greater Male’ region. He emphasized that when the People’s National Congress (PNC) held a significant majority in the council, these religious traditions were upheld and celebrated with consistency.

Areesh expressed regret over the current situation, claiming that even a small amount of power shift towards the MDP has led to a disregard for such religious activities. He stated that this marks a regrettable departure from the vibrant celebrations seen in recent years, noting that the sound of Takbir has effectively vanished from the city’s streets this Eid.

The initiative to decorate Male’ with festive lighting and broadcast Takbir via loudspeakers was originally introduced by President Muizzu during his time as Mayor of Male’ City Council, a practice Areesh claims is now being sidelined.