Muizzu Assigns Hirimaradhoo Voters to Hanimaadhoo Despite No Relocation
President Mohamed Muizzu reassigned voters from Hirimaradhoo to Hanimaadhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll for the 4 April local council elections, despite residents not relocating. The decree cited the Elections Act. Residents still live on Hirimaradhoo, with 260 residents per 2022 census, school up to grade 10, and daily services. Residents have requested relocation for years; preferred Kaafu Thulushdoo. In September 2024, council members met Local Government Minister Adam Shareef Umar. HDC took responsibility for a housing project in Hanimaadhoo in August, but construction has not started. Muizzu said work would be completed in 18 months. Criticism: MDP interim chairperson and Hanimaadhoo MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa accused the government of attempting to influence the election, claiming Hirimaradhoo voters align with PNC/PPM. Residents continue living on Hirimaradhoo with no housing elsewhere.