Nasheed Opens Pre-Orders for Short Story Collection, Appearing to Take a Satirical Swipe at Financial Pressures

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has opened pre-orders for a new collection of short stories, while making remarks about his financial situation that appear to carry a satirical tone.

Titled Short Stories – Late 80s (Kuruvaahaka – 80ge Fahukolhu), the book is being published by Ocean Publishers. Nasheed said the stories were originally written in the 1990s and reflect his thoughts from that period.

In promoting the collection, Nasheed referred to the absence of a salary from his role as the MDP chairperson, as well as reductions to the pension and expenses allocated to former presidents.

He also said much of his savings had been spent while attempting to build a house on a plot of land in Laamu Atoll.

The remarks appear to be delivered with a degree of satire, particularly his decision to frame the publication of a book as a way of responding to financial pressures and rising living costs. Nasheed also referenced English author Anthony Burgess, who famously spoke about writing to earn money and support his family.

The collection features stories including Chaala Zaman, Gaumee Mashroo, Reethi Haadhisaa-eh and Moosabaru, which explores themes connected to British colonial rule and Captain Moresby.

Nasheed clarified that while the recurring character is named “Hassan Kurusee”, he is distinct from the anonymous persona active under the same name on social media platforms such as X, Facebook, and Instagram, possessing a vastly different temperament and physical appearance.

Pre-orders for the book are currently open through Ocean Publishers.

The short story collection marks the latest addition to Nasheed’s bibliography. An active writer and historical researcher, he has previously published several well-known works on Maldivian political and social history, including Dhe Radhun, Killa Male’, and Dhagandu Dhahanaa.