MP Calls for Ban on Aircraft Landings During Friday Prayers

North Mahchangolhi MP Ibrahim Muhammad has called for a legal ban on aircraft landings at airports across the Maldives during Friday Jummah prayers, citing the need to uphold the sanctity of this weekly religious observance.

Speaking during parliamentary debate on the proposed amendments to the Civil Aviation Act, MP Ibrahim stated that under the administrations of former Presidents Ibrahim Nasir and Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, aircraft were not permitted to land during Friday prayer hours. He argued that changes made during the tenure of former President Mohamed Nasheed reversed this practice, limiting the ability of airport staff to attend prayers.

“Honourable President, Muslims celebrate Friday as if it’s an Eid, and as an important act of worship — the Friday Jummah prayer. The previous secular government had changed the law, which tramples the dignity of Friday Jummah hours. Therefore, we are very much in need of an amendment to the law to restore the dignity of Friday hours. It is something that all the Maldivian citizens want,” said Ibrahim.