Former Maldivian president Mohamed Waheed Hassan resigned from his post as Special Envoy of the President after email correspondence between him and Jeffrey Epstein was made public in documents released by the United States Department of Justice, according to information available to The Standard.
The emails were included in DoJ publications connected to the broader release of Epstein related records, which contain communications and business transaction references involving multiple international figures. The documents do not include criminal charges or formal allegations against Dr. Waheed.
Earlier today, the President’s Office announced Dr. Waheed’s resignation through an official circular, confirming that his letter of resignation was submitted in the morning. The circular did not state any reasons for the resignation and did not provide further commentary.
However, sources working within the President’s close circle told The Standard that Dr. Waheed was informed he should step down from the role, amid growing sensitivity surrounding the disclosures. According to these sources, the decision was conveyed as necessary to prevent reputational damage to state institutions.
Political observers note that the development aligns with the governing approach of President Muizzu, who has consistently positioned his administration as firmly opposed to corruption, sexual abuse, and illicit drugs. Since assuming office, President Muizzu has emphasized zero tolerance toward abuses of power and misconduct, repeatedly stressing that public office must not provide cover for ethical or moral violations.
While the President’s Office circular made no reference to the DoJ documents or internal deliberations, analysts say the swift acceptance of the resignation reflects an effort to uphold institutional integrity and reinforce public confidence in the administration’s standards.
As of publication, no further official statements have been issued addressing the disclosures or the circumstances surrounding Dr. Waheed’s departure.
