President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has launched a special poll to gather public opinion on the age at which the Generation Ban on tobacco use should be enforced.
This notable poll was initiated today, marking the first instance in Maldivian history where a sitting President has utilised a social media platform to seek public opinion on a significant issue.
The poll, opened on the President’s official X account, outlines three potential approaches:
• Prohibiting smoking for all individuals born on or after 1 January 2007
• Prohibiting smoking for all individuals born on or after 1 January 2004
• Prohibiting smoking for all individuals born on or after 1 January 2000
On 2 April 2025, during the second episode of Rayyithunnaa Eku, a podcast series designed to engage with the public, address concerns, and provide direct responses, the President revealed that a Cabinet paper regarding the recommendations is being drafted in consultation with medical professionals and other stakeholders.
Explaining the rationale behind these options, the President had earlier stated that focusing on the 18–25 age group would make it easier to prevent addiction before it becomes entrenched.