The fifth forum of the 'Ahaa' series, a platform created to directly respond to public queries, was held tonight.
Hosted at Public Service Media (PSM), the forum aims to enhance public awareness and provide direct responses from the Government to citizens' concerns.
Five Ministers participated in this evening’s forum to provide information and address questions from the public. The participating Ministers were the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan; the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam; the Minister of Education, Dr Ismail Shafeeu; the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Maryam Mariya; and the Attorney General, Uz Ahmed Usham.
While responding to questions from the public, the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, assured that the Government is confident in addressing illicit drug trafficking and abuse, citing active measures such as a focus on supply reduction and targeted actions to dismantle trafficking networks operating under the guise of legitimate businesses. Referring to the case of a woman found on the roof of a residence in Malé, Minister Ihusaan noted that police investigations are progressing based on evidence and leads. He also provided updates on the investigation into the death of Zakiyya Moosa, stating that, in response to public concern, it has now been decided that an autopsy will be mandatory in all cases involving suspicious deaths. The Minister further emphasised the Government’s commitment to safeguarding children from at-risk environments and harmful influences, while also working to restore public trust in the police. He also appealed for the police to be kept out of political matters.
The Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, outlined key initiatives aimed at strengthening the fisheries sector, easing operations for fishermen, raising incomes, and enhancing financial empowerment. He provided updates on efforts to resolve the ice shortage by establishing land-based ice plants and Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems. Furthermore, he highlighted progress in developing fish processing facilities in Gaafu Dhaalu Fiyoari, Lhaviyani Felivaru, and Faafu Nilandhoo, noting that the Economic Council has approved the signing of an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contract, with completion expected within the next two years.
The Minister of Education, Dr Ismail Shafeeu, responded to queries about the education system and related policies. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive education by integrating assistive technologies and placing students based on professional assessments to enhance services for those with special needs. The Minister stated that there are no plans to review current student-related policies, as they were developed through extensive consultation and professional input, and no significant issues have been identified. He also outlined upcoming plans to evaluate the overall quality of the education system.
The Attorney General, Uz Ahmed Usham, assured that neither he nor the President has interfered with the judiciary's work. He further stated that work on the Asset Recovery Bill is ongoing, and that the draft, which includes both civil and criminal asset recovery provisions, will be submitted to the next session of the People’s Majlis.
The Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Maryam Mariya, responded to concerns regarding agriculture and food security. She acknowledged the challenges posed by crows and bats, emphasising the need for society to learn to coexist with these animals. She also highlighted that the Government’s ‘Five Million Trees Project’ would help mitigate the issue. Additionally, the Minister outlined the Ministry’s efforts to ensure national food security through the use of smart technology. She further noted that pesticide distribution and farmer education on managing plant diseases are actively underway.
The 'Ahaa' forum is a key initiative in strengthening transparency between the Government and the public by providing a platform for citizens to engage directly with senior officials.