Ministry of Islamic Affairs has reopened mosques in the Greater Male' Region following complaints from prayer goers.
In a press release, Islamic ministry announced it has reversed its ban on prayer congregations and that 37 of the 40 mosques in the Greater Male' Region have been allowed to reopen with their facilities. Furthermore, the ministry urged the public to take the necessary health precautions and be diligent in their religious practices.
The ministry had previously ordered the closure of mosques as part of the government's efforts to curb the spike in COVID-19 cases, after discussions with the Supreme Council of Fatwa and religious scholars. The ministry had stated it made the decision after noticing some mosques had ignored the guidelines on social distancing during congregations, and due to the increasing number of positive cases. However, many residents have criticised the decision, including religious scholars. Some have argued they have no choice but to pray at mosques due to congestion in the Greater Male' Region, while those who have to work outdoors have said that praying at mosques is a much better measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19 than going to their homes.
The ministry had also closed down mosques as part of the restrictions to control the COVID-19 pandemic last year.