The President's Office has officially denied reports suggesting that participants must submit questions or comments in advance of the ongoing series of community meetings with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
The clarification comes amidst ongoing public engagement sessions being held across the greater Malé area.
Heena Waleed, Spokesperson for the President's Office, emphasised that the primary purpose of these meetings is to facilitate open dialogue and gather direct feedback from the public. The President's Office is hosting these meetings to actively seek out and understand the views and consultations of the people on various critical issues, she added.
She further elaborated that President Muizzu has consistently encouraged attendees to freely express their thoughts and concerns, a practice that has been observed in previous consultations and will continue.
Heena insisted that the President has always provided the opportunity for anyone participating in these meetings to freely voice their opinions and concerns, affirming that this same procedure will be followed in all future engagements.
"There is no requirement for anyone to share their questions or opinions with intermediaries or anyone else beforehand,” she added.
President Muizzu has initiated a series of neighborhood-specific meetings, beginning with sessions in Villingili and Machchangolhi wards. These gatherings are specifically designed to offer a platform for residents to directly raise questions and share their ideas with the Head of State.