President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called upon the Maldives Police Service (MPS) to ensure the transparent and timely dissemination of information, highlighting the crucial role of open communication in fostering public trust.
Speaking during a ceremony commemorating the 92nd anniversary of MPS on Thursday evening, the President underscored the importance of providing the public with accurate information at the earliest opportunity.
"I urge you [MPS] to change the procedure on sharing information with the public as soon as you start investigating a case. It doesn’t matter what type of case it is. It could be an assault case or any other case. I would like to ask you to change the procedure on sharing information with the public. Inform the public that we have started that particular case and keep on sharing information as the investigation progresses,” he said.
He noted that such transparency not only enhances public confidence but also enables the police to carry out their responsibilities more effectively. He further stressed that timely communication helps prevent the spread of misinformation, whether for political or other motives, and urged the police to bring their initiatives closer to the community.
The President also reiterated the essential role of the police in upholding the rule of law and affirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting all necessary measures to strengthen and maintain public confidence in the institution.
He went on to highlight the Government’s continued efforts to enhance the capabilities of MPS. In this regard, he announced that full access to police services would be extended to citizens across the nation through improvements in resources, infrastructure, and service delivery mechanisms.
The President added that, by the end of this year, police services would be established in all inhabited islands of the Maldives. Furthermore, the government intends to establish dedicated police stations in 110 islands over the next three years. He also emphasised that priority is being given to equipping the police force with the requisite training and facilities.
During the event, he presented commemorative mementoes to police personnel in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the service.