Malé, Maldives — Former Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal has broken his silence following his dismissal, addressing both his political future and personal life in an exclusive interview with “Dhen.”

Faisal, who served as Tourism Minister until his recent removal, reflected on his past statements, particularly one he made eight months ago on the same program: “I will accept every constructive criticism as progress.” True to his words, Faisal faced both criticism and praise during his tenure, with many of his former critics now voicing support after his dismissal.

After maintaining a low profile in the media, Faisal shared his plans moving forward. “At the moment, I’m thinking of relocating to the island [L. Fonadhoo]. Now that I have a five-month-old baby, the work of living will be more, and the cost of living in Malé will also be high,” he said. Faisal had resided in his native Laamu Atoll Fonadhoo even before his ministerial appointment.

Regarding his political career, Faisal confirmed he intends to remain active despite his relocation. “I was previously in the PPM Senate. After PPM was dissolved, I’m not in any party now,” he stated, adding that he is currently unaffiliated with any political party.

Following his dismissal, Faisal issued a statement expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve as minister, sharing his vision and extending best wishes for the future of the tourism sector.

Speculation has swirled around Faisal’s dismissal, with rumors suggesting tension between the government and his father, Parliament Speaker Abduhraheem Abdulla. Some claim Abdhuraheem is at odds with the current administration. Faisal, however, dismissed these claims. “Father is with the government. This is a government that the Maldivian people brought with great effort, that the people very much wanted. We won’t do anything that would disappoint the people,” he affirmed.

Faisal added that while his father can speak for himself, their personal conversations reaffirm that Abduhraheem supports the government. “He said that political people will face political issues. That patience is what’s needed in that,” Faisal noted, expressing his commitment to enduring political challenges with resilience.

Faisal also revealed that he has not been in contact with the President since his dismissal. Although determined to remain in politics, he has yet to decide on his future political alignment or role.