Government to Install Eid Lights Only in Five Cities Amid Public Criticism

The government has announced that festive lights for the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations will be installed only in selected locations within the country’s five cities.

The decision was announced during a press conference held at the President’s Office by the special committee formed to address challenges faced by Maldivians due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Speaking at the briefing, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Khaleel said the government had decided not to install Eid lights on islands this year as part of efforts to reduce public expenditure.

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Under the plan, Eid lights will be installed at predetermined locations in the cities of Malé, Kulhudhuffushi, Thinadhoo, Fuvahmulah and Addu.

The government stated that limiting the installations to city areas is intended to manage spending amid rising costs, particularly as global fuel prices have increased due to the conflict in the Middle East.

The decision has also drawn criticism from members of the public, with some questioning the move amid ongoing discussions on government spending.

The practice of installing coloured lights and decorative arches for Eid in Malé, Hulhumalé and Vilimalé began in 2023 when President Dr Mohamed Muizzu served as the Mayor of Malé.

Since President Muizzu assumed office, Eid lights have been installed annually in Malé and on other islands to mark the festive occasion. During last year’s Eid celebrations, decorative lights were installed on 65 islands across the country at government expense.