In a decisive move to protect her family’s reputation, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has filed a civil lawsuit against Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) activist Mariyam “Mandhy” Zubair. The legal action, initiated on March 19, 2025, responds to allegations made by Mandhy concerning the First Couple’s 16-year-old son, Umair Mohamed Muizzu.
The controversy arose when Mandhy, during a recent MDP rally in Malé, insinuated that the government’s nationwide vape ban was prompted by an incident involving Umair. She claimed that Umair had been caught vaping, leading to the policy change.
Responding to these assertions, the First Lady convened a press conference at the presidential residence, Dhimyaath, on March 15. Represented by former Attorney General Aishath Azima Shakoor, First Lady firmly denied the allegations, stating unequivocally that her son has never used vape or tobacco products.
Expressing deep concern, First Lady highlighted that such unfounded rumors jeopardize her son’s educational prospects, social development, and personal safety. She emphasized that her children are uninvolved in political matters and should remain beyond the reach of political attacks.
The legal action underscores violations of constitutional protections, the Child Rights Protection Act, and international conventions safeguarding children’s rights. By filing this lawsuit, the First Lady aims to prevent similar incidents in the future and protect the dignity of all children.
This development has sparked a broader conversation about the ethical boundaries of political discourse in the Maldives, particularly concerning the involvement of minors in political controversies.
