Nothing Wrong with Giving Islamic Ministry to Salaf, Says Nolhivaram MP

In today’s parliamentary session, Nolhivaram MP, Mohamed Nasheed Abdulla (Mostaa), argued for the inclusion of Salaf Jamiyya members in government.

Mostaa’s assertion was underlined by his belief that individuals affiliated with Salaf Jamiyya are as educated and capable as Dr. Ali Zahir, and there should be no reservations about entrusting them with the responsibilities of the Islamic Ministry.

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He emphasised that these individuals should not be unfairly stigmatised as terrorists or threats to the nation, as this perception has not been validated by the government.

Mostaa questioned the resistance within parliament against providing job opportunities to Salaf Jamiyya members, particularly when secular individuals in the country are offered positions. 

He posed the critical question of whether this opposition stemmed from a fear of Islam’s increased presence in the Maldives or a concern that it would limit job opportunities for secular individuals within the parliamentary framework. 

He acknowledged that this resistance could potentially inhibit the ability of secular representatives to express their ideologies with freedom.

Furthermore, Mostaa said the rights of Salaf Jamiyya members, asserting that, like every other Maldivian, they deserve equal rights, including the right to vote and access to high-ranking job positions. 

He stressed that individuals should not face discrimination solely due to their affiliation with Jamiyya or their choice of attire.