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Maldives twitter last week #5
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
1. The fashion police got shut down
'No thanks, I'll wear whatever I want and it shouldn't be any of your business' (Faathuma, Aisthu & Fari Zubeydha. et al, 2014) pic.twitter.com/aEC8dKRH02
— Refty (@Refty) April 2, 2018
2. Artefacts from Maldives rock and roll past emerge
“Rock and Roll concert-1978” #HistoryofMaldives pic.twitter.com/eOX92Hla3h
— Alaa Didi (@alaadidii) April 2, 2018
20th century BC Mohamed shiyaa aaieku, Mumin
— Machangolhi Dhekunu (@MachangolhiDhek) April 3, 2018
Rough translation: "It's Mumin with Mohamed from 20th Century BC"
In the photo are the managers who did much of the work and made the show possible with many innovative stage effects, lights and sound arrangements. As a guitarist who played at this show, I’m very grateful to them @ahmedshaheed https://t.co/4AtcHoqdPv
— Mohamed Zuhair (@Vainujeheyge) April 3, 2018
I remember this show very well. These were the last months of the Nasir era when mullahs were not breathing down our necks at every turn!
— Ahmed Shaheed (@ahmedshaheed) April 3, 2018
My first ever rock concert! I was over the moon when I was allowed to watch it. Of course one must mention Didibey who also performed (the legend that is, not the one who is playing the guitar in the man cave at home 😊)
— Farah Didi 🎈 (@FarahDidi) April 3, 2018
3. Maldives changes development goals from Singapore to Tokyo to Switzerland
OMG FROM SINGAPORE TO TOKYO AND NOW SWITZERLAND? PLS STOP BEFORE I DIE OF SECONDHAND EMBARRASSMENT https://t.co/7xRVxYPbjt
— Luhuma Ali (@luhuehuehue) April 3, 2018
The headline reads: "There is no reason for the Maldives not to become (like?) Switzerland".
Switzerland ge chocolate factory pic.twitter.com/SoXAWPj0Vs
— Zahirbe 🎈 (@ZZahirbe) April 3, 2018
Aw you just crushed @Shaaafeee 's hopes of the national anthem being changed to "Tokyo Drift" https://t.co/yx4cpDCdMV
— Immi Saleem (@immisalym) April 3, 2018
— 空 (@SummerNashyd) April 3, 2018
Actually I am disappointed that they still haven’t claimed we could be Wakanda. Not impressed bichazzz!
— Zayaan (@ZayaanAhmed) April 3, 2018
Which is the capital of maldives🇲🇻?
— faraa farhaan (@faraa_farhaan) April 3, 2018
A- @MMuizzu B- @mshainee
C- @PresidentYAG D- @em_saeed
😂😳😂😳😂😳😂😳😂😳😂😳😂 pic.twitter.com/BshvdZwImU
4. Some students experience the ocean for the first time
Rough translation: "Because I'm someone that doesn't know how to swim, at first I thought this would be something that I would be incapable of doing. I thought the depths of the ocean would be quite scary. But the instructors were really helpful and held onto us the entire time. It was really satisfying when we got to the reef. I didn't feel scared at all. It turned out to be really fun. I didn't even feel like getting out after a while. I dived down a little myself too."
5. Disturbing news about a pending rape trial
We are extremely concerned about the pending rape trial of a 19yr old girl,involving the accused attacker having noted political connections.We have received concerning reports that the PGO is unable to cooperate with the plaintiff in a prompt manner for unclear reasons. 1/5
— Women & Democracy (@women_democracy) April 4, 2018
As of today,it has been over 3 months since the alleged incident occurred on the night of 3rd Jan, & to date there has been only one hearing. Prosecuting authorities have a special duty to expedite such cases & the denial of timely justice shows serious failure of the system. 2/5
— Women & Democracy (@women_democracy) April 4, 2018
The need for more speedy expedition of the process of rape trials are essential to combat rising atrocities such as sexual assault and to address violence against women 3/5
— Women & Democracy (@women_democracy) April 4, 2018
The need for more speedy expedition of the process of rape trials are essential to combat rising atrocities such as sexual assault and to address violence against women 3/5
— Women & Democracy (@women_democracy) April 4, 2018
It has also come to our attention that another disturbing incident has occurred in Hulhumale’ today whereby a labor worker in Hulhumale' displayed his private genitalia and sexually harassed a woman. We take note with heavy heart that we have lost count of such gruesome acts. 4/5
— Women & Democracy (@women_democracy) April 4, 2018
The widespread pattern of sexual harassment against women throughout the Maldives is alarming. We urgently call upon the Government of the Maldives and the Gender Ministry to take immediate steps and prioritize policies to strengthen safety measures for women and girls. 5/5
— Women & Democracy (@women_democracy) April 4, 2018
6. Some creep kept asking a woman to scratch their groin
An old man in his fifties walked towards me repeating "mithan kahaala dheeba" while scratching his groin. I haven't been rendered speechless like this, ever.
— Ummu Kafaboalha (@nasamthaufyq) April 5, 2018
7. An aerial photograph of Male' showed its greener past
Aerial photograph of Male' in 1988. pic.twitter.com/aPdxhb23M1
— Mauloof Ahmed (@mauloofahmed) April 7, 2018
8. The creations of an old Maldivian jeweler
Digging up some personal #DhivehiThaareekh
— I Tweet Dhivehi Story Spoilers (@immimmii) April 7, 2018
They're not so old compared to other things in history but these rings are close to 50 years old. Originally made for my Mum in Addu by Hulhudhoo Ranhadhaagey Muhammai Thakhaan (according to my Grandmother). pic.twitter.com/tojFNTcDhp
9. Beautiful images of a Maldivian island covered in mangrove forests
Keylakunu island of Maldives, is the only island which shows true features of a forest. Back in 2001, international experts called on to make this island as ‘Mangrove wild reserve’. Can we please make this island as a nature reserve?? #SaveKeylakunu #Maldives @EPAMaldives pic.twitter.com/znMgPPaMvG
— the islandgirl (@AfaHussain) April 7, 2018
10. A road in Maliku (Minicoy) shows what Maldivian roads used to be like before Amin's "modernisation" efforts
#Maliku ge mageh. Malikuga maguthah hunnanee Amin Didi Raajjeyge rahrarhuge maguthah seedhaa nukuraa iru huri gothah. Naifaruga hunna gothah pic.twitter.com/SCCTTBf25a
— Elhekoyyaage Didi (@uhijaaN) April 7, 2018
Rough translation: "A road in Maliku. The roads in Maliku are what the roads used to look like before Amin Didi straigtened them. Similar to Naifaru."
People like Muizzu will always get away if down the line we glorify them& make them heroes.Amin Didi was the leader who muizzed the whole country originally, uprooting trees & destroying our islands so he can parade. In a few year we will teach kids what a great person Muizzu is. pic.twitter.com/2mY30Zxw1N
— 🍞🌹 (@kopitaaaa) April 8, 2018
11. An image shows Maldivian woman collecting water for agriculture
Maldivian women collecting water for Agriculture. pic.twitter.com/lruhIXhWds
— Mauloof Ahmed (@mauloofahmed) April 7, 2018
12. A twitter Sheikh warned of the dangers of Satan when giving someone a lift
Hiley FIRIHENUN ge CYCLE fahathah rangalhu ANHENAKU naaraane! Thimannaa kithanme hihsaafey kiyas vari hama. Shaithoana e 2 medhah faavegannaanee bunefakaa noon! Ahaa huhdha hoadhaafakaa noon!
— Sheikh Ali Zaid (@alizaid1000) April 7, 2018
Rough translation: "“A good WOMAN would never get on the back of a motorbike driven by an unmarried MAN. I don’t care how pure you say your heart is. Satan isn’t going to give warning when he appears between them. He isn’t going to ask for permission!”
Oh no. It's a women addressing the Sheik. His honor is tarnished. He is masturbating to your reply/comment right now.
— Adam Ali Nawaz 🎈❓ (@rihakuruman) April 8, 2018
Shaithaanaa has won.
13. In the capital, another tree bites the dust
While we talk of the importance of biodiversity and conservation, while our schools organize clean ups and tree planting activities @HousingGovMv continues to take down the remaining few “big” trees in Malè in the name of “development”.
— ECOCARE Maldives (@ecocare_mv) April 9, 2018
No effort has been made to relocate them. pic.twitter.com/PxcWfPfVkt
When are we seriously gonna be done with "developing" Malé? Huge Banyan Tree infront of is being decimated right now.#Savethetrees #SaveMaldives pic.twitter.com/BKHI1uIX9D
— Abdulla Adam (@Abdulla_Adam) April 9, 2018
14. Maldivian customs confiscated a buddha to never return it again
High time we realized that visitors to our island nation have their own beliefs and thus we need to respect their beliefs!! This kind of backward actions has no place in today’s world!! Shouldn’t have been an issue during any time..but now esp we can’t be so ignorant & paranoid! pic.twitter.com/HTqSbZQJaN
— Jenny Latheef (@LitmusTimes) April 9, 2018
15. The motorbike infestation of Male' continues
Alhugandu ves dharifulhu bala ais mihry. Kihneh tho saikalu nereny. Huri dhimaalun mahchah tho Aran vee. Thankolheh balaa laa nama dho. pic.twitter.com/gwfYZIurek
— ibrahim zaid ali (@ibmzaidali) April 9, 2018
Rough translation: "I'm here to pick up my kids too. How am I supposed to get my motorbike out? I should drive it straight over this huh. Wouldn't hurt to pay a bit more attention."
16. A time when most people in Male' rode bicycles
Malé with bicycles. pic.twitter.com/TO5nn1zONL
— Moh Musthafa Hussain (@musthafaaa) April 9, 2018
Maldives twitter last week #4
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
1. Space Parade released a new comedy sketch
You wanted it so here it is. A new quick (but slow mo) video we cooked up to tickle your nose hairs. Watch till the end... 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/OcW2Yryhzx
— Space Parade (@spaceparade) March 28, 2018
2. A new spin on rape
Raped this country for good? It’s not that wonderful ok pic.twitter.com/z0vM3WIcmD
— Zahirbe 🎈 (@ZZahirbe) March 26, 2018
There’s nothing good or wonderful about rape, lady! Stop pulling metaphors from your ass to justify the level of unsustainable “development” this regime has brought. Most of the damage done is irreversible so the least you can do is stop trying romanticize rape... honestly, wtf! https://t.co/tSzmO3AkVS
— Maya Mauroof (@MayaMauroof) March 28, 2018
3. A young Maldivian scientist at #SciTechMv2018
Meet the young scientist Haathim, who will be doing some cool experiments at #SciTechMv2018, this Friday at Hulhumale' Central Park. #DigitalMaldives #SmartCitiesMv pic.twitter.com/zsLzbu0Xbw
— Ooredoo Maldives (@OoredooMaldives) March 28, 2018
4. A Maldivian engineer pledged to gave up bottled water
Today I pledge to avoid bottled water whenever possible. I am making a conscious decision to reduce the amount of plastic waste I create, to #BeTheChange I want to see. This is how I plan to do so:
— Adam Mubeen (@GuppyOnWheels) March 28, 2018
1. I will drink supply water at home, work and outside
— Adam Mubeen (@GuppyOnWheels) March 28, 2018
2. I will carry a refillable water bottle if I am going to be outside for longer.
3. I will ask for tap water instead of bottled water whereever supply water is available and will gladly pay for it.
Why do I want to do this?
— Adam Mubeen (@GuppyOnWheels) March 28, 2018
As an engineer working in the water and sanitation sector I know that the Maldives spends billions of Rufiyaa on building, operating and maintaining water supply systems.
I am not only aware, but also qualified enough to say that these systems produce safe drinking water.
— Adam Mubeen (@GuppyOnWheels) March 28, 2018
5. Pizza Hut opened its first store in the Maldives, an opportunity that local politicians were quick to take advantage of
Global food chain @pizzahut unveils it’s first Maldives outlet at Capital Male’ tonight, Managed by Gamma Island food pvt ltd. Undoubtedly, these are the results of unprecedented economic developments brought by HEP Yamin’s Government since 2013. @em_saeed pic.twitter.com/wHhi2Am6sl
— Ahmed Nihan (@ahmed_nihan) March 28, 2018
How about a local brand that specializes in Maldivian traditional food?
— Coach Shujau (@coachshujau) March 29, 2018
Ala, Kattala, Bambukeyo, Huni, Mas, Asaara.
I’d pay good money for this 👌🏽 pic.twitter.com/4RUcWnCZx5
Our struggle against totalitarian systems of state power continues. The struggle to curtail excessive corporate power who sells poisoning food to our children should be stopped at this stage. Meals like Garudhiya, Farumass is the joy that our kaabafain brought. #BoycottPizzaHut pic.twitter.com/FUTZ9saz3J
— #FreeFarisNow 🎈 (@faixal) March 29, 2018
6. A government company apologised for the "oversight" of having a smaller prize for the Women's Champions of a futsal cup
HDC’s “Youth City Futsal Cup 2018” is here again with more opportunities and bigger prizes!
— HDC (@hdcmaldives) March 29, 2018
Click the link for more info:https://t.co/CRSJ4ICTQ0#YCFC2018 #Hulhumalé #YouthCity pic.twitter.com/owaQ7sqPEy
1/2: Dear all, we are pleased to announce that we are making the prize money for #YCFC2018, equal for both men & women. We would like to apologize sincerely for our oversight. HDC believes in equal opportunities & stand strong for equality of both genders.https://t.co/fghqmjrGLG pic.twitter.com/2apyMyK6vQ
— HDC (@hdcmaldives) March 29, 2018
7. Local minister claimed that he would develop the Maldives "like Tokyo", which drew widespread ridicule
Amaazakee Male' Tokyo gothah tharahgee kurun: Minister Muiz https://t.co/mMy6svFLTc
— Mihaaru (@Mihaarunews) March 30, 2018
Furathama meehun tharahggee vaan vee. Magu mahchah kunialhaa meehun joorimanaa kuranvee. Cykalu ga sticker eh noon jahan vee. Tokyo my foot 🤣🤣🤦🏾♂️🤦🏾♂️ https://t.co/iJoi033eo9
— M A S R A H™ (@MASRAHMV) March 31, 2018
Rough translation: "First people should develop (themselves). We should (start) fining people who litter. Not just put (traffic) stickers on motorbikes. Tokyo my foot"
Tokyo ge magumatheega Tokyo fuluhun Tokyo IGMH kurimatheega TOKYO sarukaaruge cordinatarunnah faisaa hoadha dhinumuga avedhenethi.
— Beentey 🇲🇻 (@ramyz44) March 31, 2018
Tokyo gadin 06:50 pic.twitter.com/gmKZBi46sJ
Rough translation: "On Tokyo's roads are Tokyo's police, who are in front of Tokyo's IGMH (local hospital) tirelessly collecting money for Tokyo's government coordinators."
In Tokyo, Odaiba.
— Issis ❄ (@Ixxath1515) March 31, 2018
Kureege lonuziyaarah magu 😕 pic.twitter.com/NXOiapLCva
Rough translation: "What used to be Lonuziyaarai' magu".
By "develop like Tokyo", he probably didn't mean the discipline and spectacular planning the Japanese put into things.
— Naail 🎈 (@kudanai) March 31, 2018
He probably meant they want to run the county like the Yakuza.
What the actual fuck Muizzu? Istg I hate every single cell of you. Swimming track area is used by many people. The place is a blazing furnace n you have cut down the few trees that were there. I hope Mahsharu dhuvahun kaley amurah kendi hurihaa gasthah kaley fahathun dhuvaane. pic.twitter.com/trcJQyv1t6
— marmalade 🎈❓ (@amrizlyn) April 2, 2018
8. The people of Noonu Atoll Landhoo protested about their electricity service
N.Landhoo kanu andhireega. Rayyithun muzaaharaaga. Karantu Bill kudakurany karantu kandaigenthoa rayyithun eba suvaalu kurey @TeamFenaka pic.twitter.com/xd05ynQrEu
— Sheeza Aishath 🎈 (@sheezaaishath) April 1, 2018
Rough translation: "N. Landhoo is in total darkness. The citizens are protesting. They are questioning whether their electricity bill will be reduced by getting rid of their electricity entirely"
9. 888 days passed since former rock star VP Adeeb was incarcerated. Photos show a totally different looking man.
888 days since Adeeb has been kept in total isolation. You can keep Adeeb locked up with unfair trials and can deny his medical as well. But keep in mind that "Adeeb aa hamain ehves kameh nunimeyne" pic.twitter.com/9dJECX32fm
— Nash (@maryam_nashwa) March 29, 2018
10. A woman shared examples of hate messages received by her non Muslim friend's teenage sister
Here are some of the hate messages my non muslim friends’ teenage sister received on Sarahah.
— Maryam (@mariamshifaa) April 1, 2018
I’m shocked at the extent people would go to force their own beliefs and opinions on others. What if my Hindu friends here in Punjab send me hate messages like this bcs I’m a Muslim? pic.twitter.com/rGIoYXRLXI
11. The Maldives police used blasphemy laws against local NGO head Shahindha Ismail, alleging she is creating religious discord on twitter
I attended the police today and am summoned in writing for Monday. I am alleged of “attempting to disrupt religious unity by creating religious discord through #Twitter ” and investigated under section 617 (1) a and b of the Penal Code. @ahmedshaheed @fidh_en @omctorg @forum_asia pic.twitter.com/Pm3CS9ZhJr
— Shahindha Ismail 🎈 (@HindhaIsmail) April 1, 2018
12. Images showed severe coastal erosion in Vaavu Atoll Fulidhoo
The beautiful Fulidhoo island in Vaavu atoll is facing severe coastal erosion. This pictures are taken from the Northern side of the island. According to the local and island council, construction waste are dumped here to prevent erosion. #Maldives #maldiveislands #raajjethere pic.twitter.com/1nCJ7B0F0V
— the islandgirl (@AfaHussain) April 2, 2018
Maldives twitter last week #3
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
1. Former First Lady Nasreena Ibrahim wowed the nation by speaking out about her husbands arrest
Former First Lady’s speaks with media https://t.co/meqjMUKLt7
— Raees Maumoon Office 🇲🇻 (@RMAG_Office) March 20, 2018
It is rare to hear her talk, even back during when her husband Maumoon was ruling the Maldives for 30 years straight.
2. Naturally this prompted someone to attack her for not wearing the hijab (among other things)
Burugaa Naalhaa Buma Hadhaagen Isthashi Gandu Kalhukohgen Nuvithaakah 2 Anhen Dharinah Ves Migothah Vaagidheegen Siraathu Magun Baa??
— Soodher💖 (@sootie44) March 23, 2018
A rough translation: "Are you truly on the righteous path when you and your two daughters do your eye brows, dye your hair black, and don't even wear the hijab?"
Woman criticises women for not covering their heads with a headscarf, for having dyed hair & perfectly plucked eyebrows, while she does wear a headscarf,she herself cakes on makeup, does her eyebrows etc. What is this stupidity?#DoubleStandards #GenderBasedDiscrimination #mordis https://t.co/yvUOsPiRhT
— ⚍ #FreeThePad (@guraafehi) March 24, 2018
3. Before and after image showed extreme deforestation on Maldivian islands
Wonder how @Simad & Shaiq from @CDEconsulting feels after witnessing such destruction? Hw do they sleep at night as they clearly know what they have done for greed & money is wrong by all means most evidently from Environemntal angles of which experts they claim to be. pic.twitter.com/XfBXt6kcmK
— AW (@bikkz) March 19, 2018
4. President Yameen lifted the State of Emergency
President Yameen lifts the SoE because he now has no need for it. He has overrun the judiciary and legislature, arrested hundreds unlawfully and introduced a “new normal” in the #Maldives - full dictatorship. We will not give up, we will fight and we will overcome.
— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) March 22, 2018
5. Symbolic records released Oyaa by Pest
Always thought Maldivian raps were abysmal, but man @SymbolicRecords did a really good job with Oyaa ft. Pest. Can't stop listening to it. 🤯👊 https://t.co/8vHMPTdgV2
— | ᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴɪsᴛ | (@mfayax) March 22, 2018
6. Goidhoo School from Baa Atoll held a bicycle rally
B. Goidhoo School held a bicycle rally to mark #EarthHour 2018.#Connect2eatrh@aishathshiham@goidhooschool pic.twitter.com/HtTrsrR7FY
— Ministry of Education (@EducationMV) March 22, 2018
7. A trash thread
This is a trash thread. These are the trash I found this morning within 700m of Male'. Trash Police, do your job.
— marmalade 🎈❓ (@amrizlyn) March 21, 2018
1. Boduthakurufaanu Magu behind Stelco pic.twitter.com/1JGRZHOTzj
8. Opposition activist Bardrudeen was released from police custody
Thank you everyone. I am free now. @PoliceMv officers tried to twist my wrist and fingers. When I screamed in pain they said they would pepper spray in to my mouth if I scream again. @hrcmv @hrw @UNHumanRights @MEAIndia @USAmbKeshap @USEmbSL #huttuvaa #MaldivesInCrisis pic.twitter.com/xOzqriemES
— Badruddeen 🎈 (@Badruddeen) March 22, 2018
9. High praise continues for "Master Plumber" Muizzu, the Minister of Housing & Infrastructure
Asthaqfirullah. So much tharaqqee and physics. Muizzu the master plumber. pic.twitter.com/emQzHG6tIl
— Hamid Shafeeu (@shafeeu) March 22, 2018
Mi dhen kihaa dhera kameh. Muizzu ah pavement aky koche kamaa pavement ge beynun kiyaa dhey claaheh nagan vejje 🤦🏻♀️#holhitharaggee#weneedourpavementsback pic.twitter.com/CJHNkPKouC
— Lyne 💛❓🎈 (@LeyneMcqueen) March 23, 2018
The famous Pipe Dream Fountain of Male'. A very popular tourist attraction. Often confused with MP Nihan but distinctly different. https://t.co/kuPm89HeSq
— A'Zmyst (@AzMyst) March 24, 2018
Hello @MMuizzu . pic.twitter.com/pgDcQfJzkM
— Huzam (@Huzam) March 24, 2018
10. The yo mama scam
7671109 called me claimed 2b from @bankofmaldives. Said 2 cards of same number issues & checking. Asked for my card details.
— ibu jaleel 4MN #KKBK (@ibujalyl) March 22, 2018
Told him bml don’t ask such details & I will report this number. Then he said kaley amaa —- ! @PoliceMv @Dhiraagu
"Kaley amaa" is a popular insult meaning "Your mother". It is usually followed by another expletive. A particular nasty variant being "Kaley amaa fui!" which roughly translates to "Your mother's c*nt!". Interestingly enough, this isn't even the worst that insult gets; with the most complete version being "Kaley amaa fui fada boey!" (Drink your mothers c*nt juices!). The more you know!
11. Maldives is home to some of the worlds most beautiful (and most threatened) mangroves
Exploring the #mangroves of Sh.Milandhoo today. Haven’t felt this serene in ages 😍 Did you know, Milandhoo has S I X different mangrove areas on the island! pic.twitter.com/vYVYSuysl0
— insaan🎈❔ (@pikomonster) March 23, 2018
12. @Zara_Fayaz draws legendary local politician Eva Abdulla
So I decided to draw @Evattey for #WomensHistoryMonth! #AnhenVerin#illustration #digital #art #InspiringWomen #IWD2018 #sketchdaily pic.twitter.com/MUoWnSLuWo
— Zara Fayaz (@Zara_Fayaz) March 23, 2018
13. Another tree is felled
saw this on my way home this morning. This breaks my heart. Just why? 😣 pic.twitter.com/XGRCNeup31
— Reemie (@reemadamibrahim) March 23, 2018
14. A snow dome replaced a historic mosque
Just a reminder that the "magey qaum, magey dheen" folk literally made a historic mosque disappear in order to put an expensive and unnecessary "snow park" in it's place because apparently that's #tharaggee. You can't make this shit up.
— imy (@notaklepto) March 24, 2018
15. People mourn the sudden death of Abdulla Naail
He lived a 100 years in his short life of 22 years. Took everyone's grief away and made everyone smile. He left us too soon. But he left us as a martyr.
— Ismail Naail Nasheed (@IxmaealNaail) March 26, 2018
Forever in our hearts. Forever in our prayers.
I will always love you brother.
07.12.1995 - 24.04.2018 pic.twitter.com/EMQeXTPiJs
Raajje TV ge noosveriyaa @IxmaealNaail ge kokko Abdulla Naail, 21 kulli gothakah niyaavumaa gulhin Raajje TV ge management aai Staffun ge faraathun, e aailaa ah thauziyaa fonuvameve.
— RaajjeTVPR (@Raajje_tvPR) March 24, 2018
Local surfer dies from drowning https://t.co/dwTP3yDeVx pic.twitter.com/gvTPs6SOoJ
— avas (@avasmv) March 24, 2018
Rest in peace Naail. He sent me this poem he wrote a while back. I can barely bring myself to read it but its definitely worth sharing. pic.twitter.com/YMnodMm2gb
— fine (@fainanfaseeh) March 24, 2018
What a tragic day.
— Ismail Aruham Adam (@aruuham) March 24, 2018
Rest In Peace Naail. 😞
I’ve met Naail a couple of times when he worked with MISC. Truly gutted that he is gone. I’ll keep him in my prayers.
— Led (@__L3d) March 24, 2018
إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعونَ
— Maimoon (@Mrsays_) March 24, 2018
Marhoom ge furaanayah suvarugeyge dhaaimee niumaiy dhehvvai Aailaa ah kehtherikan minvaru kurahvaashi. Aameen pic.twitter.com/jIm4Xu4e21
Rest In Peace, Naail. You were taken from us too early. May your soul find eternal peace.
— Malsaa Mohamed (@mxlsaaa) March 25, 2018
Gutted to hear this devastating news. My heart has sunk!!! This is so so sad!
— Safaath Ahmed (@safaathahmed) March 24, 2018
My deepest condolences to Naail's family and friends.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un. https://t.co/0DwTI4RhQy
16. A hypothetical question about a female Maldivian President attracted religious conservatives like flies
I wonder what will happen if we elected a lady president 😊🤔
— Zainab (@Shuibug) March 24, 2018
I guess women will have it at least a bit better than it is now.
This may sound offensive but in Islam there can be no l"ady leader" and elections aren't taken to choose a leader in a islamic land! Please refer back to the basics of the religion and see how a leader must be chosen! And btw democracy is shirk and kufr!
— Stranger (@huwaatha88) March 24, 2018
17. A Salafi preacher got all worked up about the growing movement to eliminate the tax on feminine hygiene products
“I wonder what the hell these women are doing at offices”
— Mohamed Shuraih (@MohamedShuraih) March 27, 2018
They’re there to work, just like us, to make a living so that they can survive in this country where most of us can hardly get by from one month to the next.
Religion should not be used as a tool to oppress women. pic.twitter.com/YuTtEKQ7z1
Maldives twitter last week #2
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
1. There was some pretty blatant racism towards Chinese people
Hadhu fahana alhaafa thebe ehche thakeh China 🇨🇳 pic.twitter.com/1EEN6IDzvj
— Ali Hashim Smith❓🎈 (@AliHashimSmith1) March 11, 2018
A rough translation of the tweet: "Chinese are abhorrent things"
The text on the image says: "China-Maldives friendship pissing". "Goru" is a dirty way of saying urine in Dhivehi. "Goruhendun" is pissing.
@MachangolhiDhek mee dhuniye dhu insaanun ge sifaige thibi enme jangalee janavaaru baigadu
— Say Big NO to YAG 👹 (@AbdullaShareef4) March 11, 2018
Rough translation: "they are the most jungle like, most animal mob to look like humans on this earth".
2. More than 18 million MVR worth of funds meant for the Rohingya went missing
Rohingya Fundah veegotheh neiygunu https://t.co/7HmgQtPmXS
— Mihaaru (@Mihaarunews) March 12, 2018
Translation: "Couldn't find out what happened to the Rohingya fund"
Islamic ministry unable to account for US$1m Rohingya fund - https://t.co/JJ7cWAvi5d pic.twitter.com/R61wzn2wuk
— Maldives Independent (@IndependentMV) March 12, 2018
People should seriously be vary of giving money to any sort of funds (Zakath, tax, pension fund etc) collected by this Gov't. No functioning independent Commission that'll look into any of these corrupt practices. Your money is used by corrupt officials to live a life of luxury.
— Def.Dum (@BlindEyeShut) March 12, 2018
crimes in stealth mode, using religion as a tool? the Middle man eats all, you never know! Not only Rohingya fund. What happened to Qudus fund
— Jaleel Ahmed (@jaleel_aa) March 12, 2018
Telethon fund, Etc ? No clue what happened!! Best to pay Zakat in person to needy and not give it to any authority!
This is disgraceful! Maldives govt silent on what happened to #Rohingya fund - money that was collected to help Rohingyas. 18 million is no joke. People donated in good faith. @tunkhin80 @JamilaHanan Please raise this issue with @maldivesembuk https://t.co/CzRo4Z12Ar
— Farah Didi 🎈 (@FarahDidi) March 12, 2018
18 million. From ISLAMIC MINISTRY. I have no words 😶
— MaaniSamyr 💫 (@MaaniSamyr) March 12, 2018
Dheenaa gaumattaka Rohingya Fund rakkaakohdhinee dho
— Shahindha Ismail 🎈 (@HindhaIsmail) March 12, 2018
Translation: "Kept the Rohingya funds safe for god and country huh"
As we talk about lost aid money, worthy of mention; @maldivianrc channelled over US$500,000 to Bangladesh Red Crescent for the #Rohingya —which remains the largest donation (per capita) to the international appeal for aid. Majority was raised through a @Raajje_tv telethon.
— Junayd 🇲🇻 (@mjunayd) March 12, 2018
According to @Dr_AhmedZiyad, @MVIaffairs sent a letter to @bankofmaldives re Rohinga Fund requesting to transfer money from one account to another. So, how long does it take to transfer monies in one account to another? 4 months? @bankofmaldives? #dhogunuhadha
— Hussain Shameem (@HuShameem) March 14, 2018
3. The Parliament Member for Velidhoo tells an opposition activist to "f*ck a duck"
You FUCK a DUCK!
— Yamin Rasheed (@YaminRasheed) March 11, 2018
The tweet he is responding to asks whether the MP's cafe' was shut down because he is planning on marrying President Yameen's former daughter in law (?), and that he often sees them together in Hulhumale'. Some help with the translation for this one would be appreciated. Some things just don't translate well to English.
When life gives you ducks 👇🏼 https://t.co/HDxf2Onq81
— Nakko (@_nakkko) March 11, 2018
☑ a duck pic.twitter.com/vNFDps2exO
— Nihal Ali Rasheed (@__nexis) March 12, 2018
4. Vegetation was cleared from Kulhudhufushi
Vegetation clearance that happened yesterday in K.ffushi. So many environmental protection regulations are being contravened by the govt for the airport project. #SaveMaldives pic.twitter.com/0BFCBhkOnO
— the islandgirl (@AfaHussain) March 12, 2018
You mocked us saying we are “lha kudhin” when we spoke.
— the islandgirl (@AfaHussain) March 12, 2018
You labeled us as opposition party when we went against it.
You broke so many laws for doing it. But you stopped our silent protest by sending police when we expressed ourselves! I ll never forget this destruction. pic.twitter.com/A6Wv4hdg7g
"lha" means young, "kudhin" means children.
5. A new symbol of protest against President Yameen gains traction
Enmen Mirey (12/3) 9:00
— 🎈 (@Simwarr) March 12, 2018
👉Maaveyomagu kanmathi
👉Raidhebaa magu 70 numberu kanmathi
👉Janavaree magu Evening Glory kanmathi#PASS 👊👇👊 pic.twitter.com/pyc6zXXSAj
6. Someone sharing their experience of street harassment gets harassed
She was brave enough to share her street harassment story but instead some guys are shitting on her in the comments! And one had the audacity to call the status and her ‘attention seeking’ such a lovely place we live in 🙂 #nufoshey pic.twitter.com/aypRPrYMFg
— Afa Rameez (@Afarameez) March 13, 2018
Are you kidding me?! To all the people commenting on how harassment is related to what the person wears, some of my friends who wears ABAYAS have been harassed. Its not about how a person dresses. Its about this sick mentality that needs to change. https://t.co/FGyQWi2i4Z
— Jana (@jeem_jana) March 13, 2018
Boys and men aren't born as harassers or rapists. This disgusting behavior is learned from, and reinforced in a patriarchal society. This must be stated loudly and repeatedly: A man has no right to a woman's attention, feelings, or touch without her consent. https://t.co/kxaYGv0efI
— HawwaLubna 🎈❓ (@HawwaLubna) March 13, 2018
7. The MV Twittersphere mourns Stephen Hawking's passing
the phrase 'where there is life, there is hope' was coined by stephen hawking. yag likes to pretend it's his phrase. stephen hawking died today (rip).
— xiena saeed 🎈 (@dorinbakedbeans) March 14, 2018
Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis at the age of 21.
— Ismail Naail Nasheed (@IxmaealNaail) March 14, 2018
He wasn't supposed to live past 25.
He just died, aged 76.
His is a death to mourn, but more importantly a life to celebrate.
Thank you for teaching the world how to defy odds and struggles. You were the epitome of motivation for the whole world. pic.twitter.com/ZBJpJnnkQ7
— Refty (@Refty) March 14, 2018
I still remember the first time I read Stephen Hawkings Brief History of Time, how powerful it felt, how inspirational it was .. it one of the things that made me want to learn more read more.. abt everything.
— ṁūśẗħⱺ 🎈 (@mustho) March 14, 2018
“As for faith, disbelief and one’s final abode, these are the matters that are judged SOLELY by Allah.” pic.twitter.com/n5kPHQNL6p
— Nadhuwa Mohamed 🎈 (@Nadhoou) March 16, 2018
8. Some people weren't too happy about it
- Stephen Hawking akee ilmu libigenvaa meeheh kamah bunamundhaa muslimunnah buhdhi aa visnun thanavas koh dhehvaashi.
— بنت موسي (@bintMusa777) March 14, 2018
Stephen Hawking maruve nimigen dhiyae ilāheh vaa kamah gaboolu nukuraa haalu, kaafaru kan matheega.
Eyna ah libunu budhdhi aa visnun ehenveema kobaabaa?
Rough translation:
" - May (the lord) gift the Muslims who say that Stephen Hawking is an educated man with the ability to think rationally
Stephen Hawking did not believe in the existence of a god and died an infidel
So where is his thought and rationality?"
Mullah statuses today:
— Aadham Mul-hidh (@adamaadham) March 14, 2018
Stephen Hawking ah heyo duaa kurun haraam
Kaafarun avahaara veytha. Vaani maru
Allahah gonjahaafa mihaaru veyyah
Syria ga kudhin maruvaa iru ehchekay hithakah naaraa. Mi kaafaru maruveema dhuniye moyavanee
Rough translation:
"Well wishes for Stephen Hawking is a sin
Infidels don't pass away, they die
Insults Allah, when children in Syria die people don't care at all, but when this infidel dies everyone goes nuts"
9. A conversation between an extremist and a reasonable person
Thread (between extremist and Target) https://t.co/vqUn57t5Zq
— YumRashyd 🎈❓ (@YumnaRashyd) March 14, 2018
Another example of my previous tweet. Lets forget about rape, murder, abduction, human trafficking and inhumane treatment. Lets go kill the one with different beliefs! It is what we are instructed to do! 🤦🏻♀️ https://t.co/QKaItIHWpI
— Malsaa Mohamed (@mxlsaaa) March 13, 2018
For some reason it’s completely okay for abductions, murders, sexual harrassment and rape happening in a muslim community. But oh my god, an athiest? A buddhist? Everyone screams. Its chaos. The world is ending! Kill him!
— Malsaa Mohamed (@mxlsaaa) March 11, 2018
10. Maldivian women discuss the marriage trap
Okay Tweeps
— MaaniSamyr 💫 (@MaaniSamyr) March 13, 2018
Do you believe that the only option for a girl who wants to get out of her house is to marriage in the Maldives?
Yes or No?
Not many options out there unless you’re born rich or become rich enough to afford rent so a lot of us opt for working and living at resorts. https://t.co/onxPBP2mVV
— 🎈Nora Nazeer ✨ (@NoraNazeer) March 14, 2018
Obviously not. She can either leave for studies or work in another country or island. She can move in with friends. Many girls have done this. There are so many options but yes, a lot of people assume that marriage is the easy way out, prolly coz parents easily approves this
— penny 🎈❓ (@paperclippenny) March 14, 2018
Yes depending on the family. Moving out is sort of seen as betraying the family lol and it's not deemed safe either. Salary is about 8-10k but the rent is usually higher. Even when you're sharing with a friend it's a lot of expense. Easier to just stay home
— D (@dheee_13) March 14, 2018
11. Dunya Maumoon, daughter of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, quotes MLK
This is mighty rich, coming from a woman who has never even once taken part in a demonstration in the struggle for justice, equality and liberty. 🤥 https://t.co/3132ffVvDY
— Zayd Amjad (@zaydamjad) March 14, 2018
Aharumen rajjethere myhun fageeru haaluga gen gulhuvvii manje bappa. Matin Luther ah magey vedhun. Btw he is from US rajjethere
— |🇲🇻Naeem (@eminaeem) March 14, 2018
Rough translation: "It was your father who kept us raajjethere' people in a state of poverty. Regards to Martin Luther. By the way, he is from the US equivalent of raajjethere'."
Raajjethere' is a word used to refer to all other islands other than the capital Male'. It is kind of similar to the Maldivian word for the country side or regional areas. It is often used in a deregoratory way by people from Male' City who feel that they are superior.
This is coming from someone who has spent the better part of the last five years defending #Maldives government's human rights abuses by blatantly lying to the international community. https://t.co/uvWY21BYbM
— Junayd 🇲🇻 (@mjunayd) March 14, 2018
12. Countless people arrested as protests against Abdulla Yameen's regime raged on
Arrested under SoE @Pappii5 pic.twitter.com/XgM06bFURa
— Illath #FreeANNI 🇲🇻 (@IllathHassan) March 15, 2018
Police shoving protesters gathered on Majeedhee Magu into narrow lanes and pepper spraying indiscriminately. Protesters continue to re-assemble despite use of disproportionate force by police. #Huttuvaa
— Mickail Naseem 🎈 (@MickailNaseem) March 14, 2018
Vettenee, vettenee, Yaagundaa vettenee 🎵 https://t.co/hgy2X0Bx7v
— Mickail Naseem 🎈 (@MickailNaseem) March 14, 2018
One protester has had a seizure after police heavily pepper-sprayed him at short range. Now being treated at ADK Emergency Room. #MaldivesInCrisis
— Mickail Naseem 🎈 (@MickailNaseem) March 14, 2018
Shout out to the unsung heroes—the excellent and selfless volunteer emergency response team of @MRC_MLE who have been providing first aid services for injured people. 👏👏👏 https://t.co/4nkuSv9fW8
— Junayd 🇲🇻 (@mjunayd) March 14, 2018
ADK ER packed with individuals affected by pepper spray, including Maldives Red Crescent volunteers who were treating those pepper sprayed earlier. pic.twitter.com/k26cVW1jXK
— Mickail Naseem 🎈 (@MickailNaseem) March 14, 2018
What about the individual officers who purposely attack the innocent while inside a residence.Tonight I saw it frm my own https://t.co/c8pSAzZ7W5 of the officer walked inside the building climbed the stairs upto 1st floor n pepper sprayed inside the stair ways. upholding the law?
— Ismail Hameed (@highriseissey) March 14, 2018
Beybe muzaaharaa ah annany anna hithun. Laari dheegenneh nun. #VarrahSaafu https://t.co/HzL7WpAOoO
— Nishana Hassan 🇲🇻🎈 (@Nisherna) March 14, 2018
One of the most hardworking ppl I've ever met and known. She's made hundreds of placards for others, and now it's her in custody. Unbelievable 😡😡😡 Free Aysha Waheed now!! pic.twitter.com/mQDUl8xyOw
— Afshan Latheef 🎈 (@AfshanLatheef) March 15, 2018
Police enter a workshop in Galolhu, “seize” construction materials 😂
— Mickail Naseem 🎈 (@MickailNaseem) March 15, 2018
At this rate, they might even claim that the knives used in the kitchens of the nearby restaurants are weapons hidden by the protesters. https://t.co/CrlnfnEhpH
Saharoa miothe muzahirakura sarahadhun geyege therega bahatafahuri hathiyaru. #Hushiyar pic.twitter.com/disZYZjuFY
— Nazimbe Ahmed (@NazimbeAhmed) March 16, 2018
This tweet sarcastically says that these are the weapons found at a protest site.
What is it that kind of war cry you scream when you run towards protesters @PoliceMv ? You’re not in a war zone + you wouldn’t have to do it even if we were, isn’t it?
— Shahindha Ismail 🎈 (@HindhaIsmail) March 16, 2018
#FreeWaddey ain't no sunshine when he's gone https://t.co/DhcbP1mT6w
— xiena saeed 🎈 (@dorinbakedbeans) March 18, 2018
Lawyers are being SUSPENDED on Police Initiation, lawyers not given NOTICE of time of Bail Hearings, NO sufficient NOTICE to attend Investigations, Recording Devices used & lawyer/client PRIVILEGE impinged, lawyers TARGETED at protests..#StopHaressingLawyers #MaldivesInCrisis pic.twitter.com/eEvM4lz3md
— Mariya Didi 🎈 (@MariyaDidi) March 18, 2018
My mother has been severely injured and has burns in her foot and knee from an alleged tear gas grenade from last night's protests! #MaldivesInCrisis #AniyaaveriRaees #Huttuvaa pic.twitter.com/IGImSoqAVa
— Adam Shiman (@ShymanAdam) March 17, 2018
Free @AslamAslamtey!! #FreeAllPoliticalPrisoners #Maldives pic.twitter.com/Av7wsyhlz4
— Sabra #FreePN 🎈 (@SabraNoordeen) March 15, 2018
Free @Shifana_ !#FreeAllPoliticalPrisoners #MaldivesCrisis pic.twitter.com/i1x4sDQajP
— Eva Abdulla 🎈❓ (@evattey) March 16, 2018
Amilla gedhoruga thibbas koba salaamatheh neiyy!
— Battey Kareem (@batteyaw) March 17, 2018
Free @HassanIsmail20 now! pic.twitter.com/fe1jxJZTFS
Rough translation: "No escape even if you're just at your own home!"
Release my beloved wife and her 2 sisters now pic.twitter.com/3QDK6vHlvA
— Mohamed Rasheed (@kubey2013) March 17, 2018
13. A lawyer points out some suspicious activity on her clients phone
My client @ilyas_labeeb is in police custody under SoE since 8/3/2018. It is concerning to receive information of alleged activity on telegram. Also few minutes back, his account name was changed to “Deleted Account” pic.twitter.com/4YgmvG1x83
— Safa Sharyf 🎈❔ (@safasharyf) March 14, 2018
14. Maldives Police find a suspicious sound recorder
Fuluhunge bandhugaiva faraathakai qaanoony vakeeleh bahdhalu kurevvi iru, bahdhaluvun beyhvunu thanun recording device eh fenunu kamah bune shakuva hushalahuvvafai vaathy fuluhun midhany ekan ithurah thahgeegu kuramun.
— Maldives Police (@PoliceMv) March 14, 2018
Rough translation: "We are investigating a matter that was raised with us regarding a sound recorder discovered in a room where a meeting with a lawyer and someone under custody occurred." Yup, dhivehi sentences can be quite long.
Baalees dhashun fisthola 🔫,
— Ali Nazeer (@alynazeer) March 15, 2018
Bed sheet dhashun pen drive,
Godhadi dhashun $💰,
Endhu dhashun kalhufoshi 💼 ,
Emmefahun 👇
Gondi dhashun recorder🖥,
Car dhashun mirus fen kothalhu🌶,@PoliceMv thi ulhey zaathun aharemen miulhenee ladhun 2 fai kairi kuran nukerigen 🤔 https://t.co/W7fAOt45xU
This tweet makes fun of Maldivian Police's continuing tendency to suddenly find incriminating evidence against political targets whenever they need to.
Rough translation:
"From under the pillow the pistol,
from under the bed sheet the pen-drive,
from under the mattress money,
from under the bed the black box,
Most recently,
From under the chair a recorder,
from under the car packets of pepper water,
I'm struggling to keep my legs together out of shame"
Reports circulating of Govt trying to get a court order to arrest @hisaanhussain claiming she planted the recorder found in the Police investigation room at Dhoonidhoo during the Chief Justice’s confidential lawyer meeting. #mvcrisis #StateOfEmergencyMV #Maldives
— Sabra #FreePN 🎈 (@SabraNoordeen) March 14, 2018
15. There was some intense drama regarding accusations against opposition activist Naeematha
When this woman dragged Naeematha's MURDERED daughter through the mud & exposed privileged info of her grandchildren under state care to make a political point, it was okay. But now she's crying foul?!! Nice!! Cry me a river, why don't you?! https://t.co/VwKlOFPAeR
— عاއިئشة (@ishahr) March 15, 2018
16. Maldivian MP Ahmed Nihan repeats hateful "100% Muslim" anti-diversity myth in rebuttal of EU Parliament resolution
My name is Ahmed Nihan & I strongly condemn the EU Parliament resolution calling for freedom of religion in Maldives against article 9 & 10 of our Constitution. We are a 100% Muslim nation & we have the right to remain with the religion we embraced 865 years ago. @EU_Maldives
— Ahmed Nihan (@ahmed_nihan) March 15, 2018
16. Tales of Faris Maumoon's continued suffering under police custody
.@afarismaumoon was handcuffed & forcibly dragged out of his cell by 6 @PoliceMv officers at around 5 pm Fri 16 March "for interview" without his lawyers.
— Maumoon Hameed (@maanhameed) March 17, 2018
Faris refused to speak to investigators without his lawyer, so police eventually agreed to allow him to call his lawyer.
Mohamed Nazim’s 2010 confession - a turning point for Maldivian minorities
That battle had been won. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s 30 year rule had come to a close. Maldivians had finally arrived in the “anneh dhivehiraajje” (other Maldives) that was promised by Mohamed Nasheed and the Maldivian Democratic Party. A different Maldives. One with liberty and justice, where people would be free to express themselves, to be themselves.
It was in this intoxicating atmosphere of promised progress that Mohamed Nazim boldly asked Zakir Naik what the punishment for apostasy in Islam was. He said the question was important to him as he himself was an atheist. What was the penalty for him, he asked, standing in the middle of a crowd buzzing with shock and rage. One can only imagine the fear, clearly visible through his body language, that he must have felt at that moment. Naik, perhaps not wanting the bad press of a murder happening at one of his events, deflected the question and said that it would be up to the Maldivian government to decide. And decide they would.
That battle had been won. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s 30 year rule had come to a close. Maldivians had finally arrived in the “anneh dhivehiraajje” (other Maldives) that was promised by Mohamed Nasheed and the Maldivian Democratic Party. A different Maldives. One with liberty and justice, where people would be free to express themselves, to be themselves.
It was in this intoxicating atmosphere of promised progress that Mohamed Nazim boldly asked Zakir Naik what the punishment for apostasy in Islam was. He said the question was important to him as he himself was an atheist. What was the penalty for him, he asked, standing in the middle of a crowd buzzing with shock and rage. One can only imagine the fear, clearly visible through his body language, that he must have felt at that moment. Naik, perhaps not wanting the bad press of a murder happening at one of his events, deflected the question and said that it would be up to the Maldivian government to decide. And decide they would.
Mohamed Nazim would have likely not left the stadium alive if not for a police escort that promptly swooped him out of the stadium and into police custody. This, of course, was for his own safety. Amidst an outpouring of national rage and hatred, the likes of which the Maldives had never seen before, Nazim was counselled on the error of his ways by religious scholars. Which was also obviously for his own safety as well. We wouldn’t want him to go to hell after all. Before long, Nazim had repented, and publicly apologised for his lapse in judgement. His question and confession was on the 28th of May 2010, his repentance was on the 1st of June. He hadn't even lasted a week. The elephant thoroughly shot and buried, the nation rejoiced. Was this final act sincere, or was it also out of fearing for his own safety? We may never know exactly what was going through Mohamed Nazim’s mind at that point, but for Maldivian minorities the message was clear. Keep quiet or die.
During his jailing there was no outcry from local politicians, NGOs, or activists calling on the Maldivian government to respect the UDHR and the right to freedom of conscience. The right to think for oneself, the right to choose your own belief is a universal human right that is respected everywhere in the world (at least on paper) except for a handful of countries - the Maldives sharing the most similarities with Saudi Arabia; where citizens are legally obligated to be Muslim in order to be citizens. Maumoon had hammered in the myth that the Maldives was a 100% Islamic nation. What happened to Mohamed Nazim proved that this statistic would be enforced, no matter the cost.
Where was the promise of freedom? Where was the promise of liberty? Within underground discussion groups, both online and in the real world, the vibe had changed from hopeful to a sense of looming dread. Was it alright to speak our minds? Were we free to believe what we want? Were we truly living in the “other” Maldives, or was this just business as usual?
If Mohamed Nazim’s treatment was the turning point, the events that would transpire in just a little over a years time was the dagger in the back.
On 10th December 2011 a small group of protesters gathered at artificial beach to have a silent gathering in the name of tolerance. In uncertain times they tested the waters, and found it to be full of sharks feasting on the blood of hypocrites.
They were attacked in broad daylight. Hilath Rasheed would have his skull fractured. Photographs of the attackers were taken and their names were known. Reports were made to the police. Yet, under Mohamed Nasheed’s “other” Maldives, the police decided to investigate the protestors instead. Soon politicians were calling for the incident to be investigated, not because of the gross violation of the rights of the protestors, but because the protestors posed some threat to the nebulous concept of Islam.
The dagger was thrust deep, and there in our backs it has stayed. The message was clear. Stay quiet or die. No one would help us. No one would protect us. No one would even acknowledge us. This is why first hand accounts from Maldivian minorities are so rare. This is why you will most likely never hear from a Maldivian minority who does not use a pseudonym or alias. The danger is too great. Not only from the extremists who would carry out the deed, but also from the broader population who would enable them.
We know first hand that even if Abdulla Yameen’s dictatorship were to fall, nothing would change for us. Those that tell us to work with them for the greater good would abandon us the moment their own factions gain power. History would repeat itself and the other Maldives would be nothing more than another mirage.
So, for our own safety, we stay quiet. Thousands of Maldivian ex-Muslims, atheists, buddhists, christians, LGBTQIA+ people, and countless others, suffering in silence because we cannot even trust our own family members, let alone the police, to keep us safe. Thousands of Maldivians whose stories you have never heard. Someday you will hear from us all, and history will not remember kindly those who told us to stay silent.
Maldives twitter last week #1
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week.
Here are some interesting things Maldivians talked about on twitter last week. A long term collection could be very useful for reflection and analysis.
1. @reallynattu creates satirical voting app
Since this has leaked and people got a glimpse of this super duper top secret extremely sensitive totally legit app we've been working on. So releasing #VoteApp for public use. Tweet your features to add to this.
— Nattu (@reallynattu) March 7, 2018
iOS: https://t.co/yZYEepIJ3i
Android: https://t.co/8W1jtkTwpz pic.twitter.com/EGbczx12rw
An English translation:
The top text reads "Voteapp". Next to it is a drop down menu that says "Presidential election".
Below that the title says "Candidates". Below this the same portrait of current president Abdulla Yameen is displayed five times in a row, giving the voter a wide range of candidates to vote for.
Below this is the presidents full name, "Yameen Abdul Gayoom". The president doesn't use this version in his campaigning or current activities perhaps to distant himself from his brother Maumoon. Next to this the text reads "The driving force behind the progress that the Maldives is experiencing".
After this is a section where the voter decides what kind of reward they want for voting. They are given a choice of money (from well wishers), employment (a coordinator position), or a flat from Hulhumale'. In the mockup the voter has chosen money, and the options for collecting it (deposit, cheque, or a letter delivered to your residence) are below. As the voter has selected the first option, a field to enter their account number and reward amount sits next to the Bank of Maldives and Maldives Islamic Bank logos.
At the very bottom the text reads "press to vote", with the subtext "I swear to god that I won't change my vote". The word used for "my" is "alhugandu", a relic of the Maldivian caste system, which is the self depreciating word one must use for oneself when talking to someone who demands respect; whether it be your elders, a teacher, or certain dictators. The literal translation of "alhu" is slave.
2. @paperclippenny and @legacyofpain attend mandatory marriage classes
"no anal!!" - Marie #marriageclass
— Executive Hobo 🎈 (@legacyofpain) March 7, 2018
Marie seems to be one of their tutors.
Marie just called genitals "shameful organs". Wow, I call them fun parts. This is bleak. #marriageclass
— Executive Hobo 🎈 (@legacyofpain) March 7, 2018
A word for genitals in Dhivehi is "ladhuvethi gunavan", literally "shameful organ".
I'm pretending I'm watching a play. This is a haunting one man show about a man who has given up on life and is clutching on to religion because otherwise his life has no meaning. #marriageclass
— Executive Hobo 🎈 (@legacyofpain) March 7, 2018
Fucking hell! He just called us factories #marriageclass
— penny 🎈❓ (@paperclippenny) March 7, 2018
Oh my God so many diseased ladhuvethi gunavan!!! My eyes!!! My beautiful eyes!!!! #marriageclass
— Executive Hobo 🎈 (@legacyofpain) March 7, 2018
This man's wife tried to leave him... Several times #marriageclass
— penny 🎈❓ (@paperclippenny) March 7, 2018
All financial responsibilities on men. No pressure. Eyrun mimeehun gengulheveynee. #marriageclass
— penny 🎈❓ (@paperclippenny) March 7, 2018
Seriously dude 😠
I don't think this guy thinks that women have a brain. To me it sounds like this guy thinks that women are just walking wombs. #marriageclass
— Executive Hobo 🎈 (@legacyofpain) March 7, 2018
Please ladies, stay in your marriage. Your guy invested a lot in this venture - marriage teacher #marriageclass
— penny 🎈❓ (@paperclippenny) March 7, 2018
It’s happening!!!! #OccupySaiHotaa https://t.co/tn51rHPT5q
— Hamy (@ashahamy) March 8, 2018
What we are trying to is eliminate gender segregated spaces and normalize eating at Sai Hotaa for women. Ultimate goal is for women to be able to do this without the need for ‘gatu’. #OccupySaiHotaa @KeevveMV
— Aryj (@Arrryj) March 8, 2018
"gatu" is the Maldivian slang version of "having the guts". The response is to a question basically asking why women weren’t being “gut” 365 days a year.
Occupy Sai Hotaa https://t.co/njXP4KMwfs
— Aryj (@Arrryj) March 8, 2018
We are at aibalhey #OccupySaiHotaa
— Keevve! (@KeevveMV) March 8, 2018
Our team will be here until 1400PM. So come and join us! pic.twitter.com/9qaPrdNsjo
Occupysaihotaa: Anhenverin hotaa thakah! https://t.co/FkTrgatlRz
— Mihaaru (@Mihaarunews) March 8, 2018
The headline reads: Occupysaihotaa: Women (go) to the tea houses! (sai = tea, hotaa = hotel).
Hi @Mihaarunews,
— Aryj (@Arrryj) March 8, 2018
The article states that I was leading the movement, which is inaccurate.
The #Keevve movement and #OccupySaiHotaa are both lead by @NihayaAhmed, @ashahamy and me as explained over the phone.
Please amend the article to reflect this.
.#TimeIsNow to break the gender stereotypes. Today, on #womensday our team at UNDP joined #OccupySaiHotaa. #IWD2018 pic.twitter.com/HYO9f2c2SB
— UNDP Maldives (@UNDPMaldives) March 8, 2018
Okay, this wins! I think it was @shaari that suggested Dhivehi Keun at Moon Cafe’. Varah salhi. #OccupySaiHotaa #keevve nudhaanvee! pic.twitter.com/oScpQhaRB7
— Hamy (@ashahamy) March 10, 2018
Bill for 8 people!!!!! #OccupySaiHotaa #Keevve @KeevveMV pic.twitter.com/nQK9hCQvDQ
— Hamy (@ashahamy) March 8, 2018
At Moon Café for dinner. #OccupySaiHotaa pic.twitter.com/LZUlxQQma0
— Aryj (@Arrryj) March 10, 2018
Late Nasira was the bravest among us, she initiated #OccupySaiHotaa
— Yuha Mauroof (@YuhaMauroof) March 9, 2018
A true inspiration. May god bless her 💞✨ pic.twitter.com/lr5tdPaZYM
We came for lunch to memorial saihotaa & also ordered a Rukuraa as a drink. A man approached to my friend and said "RAAKOLHEH dheebala." Anheneh saiboan ananee raa boan thoa? #keevenaananvee #OccupySaiHotaa #teammemorial #happyWomensDay2018 #InternationalWomensDay @safaathahmed pic.twitter.com/1sNzwPp7tR
— Anthi (@shafaafahmed) March 8, 2018
Seeing #OccupySaiHotaa photos is so heartwarming. The times are a changing indeed. :’) Shoutout to all the men being supportive as well.
— 🎈Nora Nazeer ✨ (@NoraNazeer) March 8, 2018
Me and @rushdhar today occupying a sai hotaa #OccupySaiHotaa #InternationalWomenDay #KeeveNudhaanvee @KeevveMV pic.twitter.com/XULcBtNihB
— Sajidha Mufeed 🇲🇻 (@SaajiMV) March 8, 2018
Ok update: I can feel the stares, hear tiny squeaks here and there. The service however is really nice. Just the testosterone I feel discriminated by.
— Nihaya 🎈 (@NihayaAhmed) March 8, 2018
Anhenunnah Sai Hotalehgai fenun dhathi kamakah vany #Keevve #OccupySaiHotaa #IWD2018
If you use the #OccupySaiHotaa and search here you will notice it’s becoming the norm and people are going to Sai Hotaa’s on a daily basis, I myself went tonight with my sisters tonight itself to participate in it and to show my support. It’s already their 2nd time
— Adam Isham (@adamisham) March 11, 2018
4. Some men aren't too happy about it
Feminism is beautiful. But why occupy sai hotaa? Why not propose separate sai hotas for women? Men need the privacy to talk the "men talk" at saihota. Likewise, women.
— I l h a m (@ilhaamnil) March 8, 2018
Issue-based agendas would facilitate women empowerment instead of trying to create a resemblance of men & women
Noannaanu salaamatheh , vaki varakah dho sai hotaa thah hingaa meehun ah keiy vaanee. Miadhu ekani chummi ziyaaratheh kolli kamahtakaa mas dhuvahuge supply huss vejje eh burun!!
— Manih Rasheed (@m3ndu3) March 8, 2018
English translation: "There is no escape, there is only so much that tea house managers will take. (We've?) run out of a months supply just because of one visit!
#SaiHotaOccupied pic.twitter.com/yyLqmcdo2B
— Manih Rasheed (@m3ndu3) March 8, 2018
#OccupySaiHotaa wahhabees ge lagondi akah ketheh nuvi. Keep breaking these rulez. 💪👧❤@KeevveMV @JCIKaafu @Arrryj @siruarts pic.twitter.com/ukYk543QcL
— Aydh (@janavaar) March 9, 2018
Peeing in a bottle: Man’s greatest achievement?
This is the best that Salafi propagandist Siru “Arts” could come up with to mock the #OccupySaiHotaa movement.
The black text on top reads:
"This year the women's groups went to the tea houses
next year (they'll go) fishing"
The red bottom text reads:
“Next year - trying to pee into a thola bottle far away without utilising any devices”
On the bottom left the silhouette peeing is labeled "men" and the female rage comic face is lablled "women".
Today I've learned a lot. Thanks all who opposed nicely.
— I l h a m (@ilhaamnil) March 9, 2018
This needs to move forward. At the same, time addressing other related issues are important.
I've already decided to join the #OccupySaiHotaa movement. #twitterlessons
5. Maldives celebrates International Women's Day 2018
When I first started out as a design student, some of my first design idols were female Maldivian designers. Fast forward to 3+ years of working and I've met more female designers than male.
— Immi Saleem (@immisalym) March 8, 2018
Here's an attempt at documenting our female designers. Feel free to add on.#IWD2018
#IWD2018 pic.twitter.com/wsObiM9kg0
— Benefit (@Benefitmv) March 6, 2018
Celebrating the courageous women who stepped up for justice. Aisha @mysticaish is fighting for justice for her brother @yaamyn. Bravo! #WomenStepUp #PressForProgess #IWD2018 #WeAreYaamyn pic.twitter.com/lwFdBcMJ5B
— Mv Democracy Network (@MDN_mv) March 8, 2018
This brave lady Shameema, has an injured spine from being hit by water at high pressure, by @PoliceMv
— MP Rozaina Adam 🎈 (@Roxeyna) March 8, 2018
Pepper sprayed daily, she was brutally kicked by a policeman during a peaceful protest even last week & yet she’s on the roads everyday fighting 4 #Democracy#PressforProgress pic.twitter.com/fFDYVtMPan
For @moyameehaa ‘s mum, a woman who’s been asking where her son is for 1307 days, despite inhumane obstructions from the state. #IWD2018
— Shaff Hameed 🎈❔ (@shoffot) March 8, 2018
I want to talk about polygamy, child brides, criminalization of relations outside wedlock, ban on women marrying non-muslims, restrictions on wives to initiate divorce, & lax child maintenance laws. But idiots might come after my head, shouting "dheenatakaa,gaumatakaa"!
— HawwaLubna 🎈❓ (@HawwaLubna) March 8, 2018
So happu
The Police raised our home today. They took with them my mother’s old iPad. They can expect to find a lot of pretty crochet designs. #MaldivesInCrisis
— Eva Abdulla 🎈❓ (@evattey) March 8, 2018
These women are my heroes. I hope for the day Maldives will give answers. Their strength in the face of brutality is the best of our humanity. #IWD2018 #FindMoyaMeehaa #WeAreYaamyn pic.twitter.com/bsqd9ZupQU
— Ish 🎈 (@bananatarts) March 8, 2018
We did #OccupySaiHotaa . Adhives dhaanvaane, #Keevve nudhaanvy? @safaathahmed couldn't tag you pic.twitter.com/MVs3icrmUf
— Luj 🌹 (@lujainshujau) March 8, 2018
Just got called a "feminazi". Because I've this weird belief that women's bodies are their own business. It's radical, I know. That's why they liken me & my kind to nazis, because believing in female self-determination is roughly equivalent to genocide. 🙄
— F 🎈❓ (@_faz_) March 8, 2018
This #InternationalWomensDay let’s not forget LGBTIQA Dhivehi women who do not have the privilege of being visible, let alone freedom to be. We exist. Claims of intersectional allegiance fall short of true solidarity when our existence is not acknowledged. #ALLWomen
— Kanbaafaanu ❓🎈 (@Kanbaafaanu) March 8, 2018
6. Maldives telecom company Dhiraagu gives police full access to opposition activist @Thayyib's SIM
Dhiraagu finally admits they gave police access to @Thayyib’s SIM.
— Mickail Naseem 🎈 (@MickailNaseem) March 8, 2018
Even if it was to honour a court order, why did @Dhiraagu not have the basic courtesy to inform the service recipient of this action? Why did it keep issuing vague statements denying the accusation? https://t.co/G5PfGFW1rV
Attn: I am going to move my Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram and other communication platforms to my SriLanka number. I am using @Dhiraagu services from 1997 (started from pager) & many times they have violated my privacy. records must be there.
— Thayyib #PN2018 (@thayyib) March 8, 2018
thank you @Google @gmail @Twitter @TwitterSupport @verified @facebook those who wants stop me, may attempt again and more, please protect my accounts.
— Thayyib #PN2018 (@thayyib) March 8, 2018
There was no lawful purpose. Since @Dhiraagu gave @PoliceMv the means to impersonate @thayyib they aided in the commission of a crime: identity fraud.
— Maumoon Hameed (@maanhameed) March 8, 2018
A cloned SIM's real use is not to intercept messages, but to appear to others as the real one, i.e. to commit identity fraud. pic.twitter.com/PF06AOeNLO
A sad day, but I see NO other option than to quit @Dhiraagu after 19 years.
— Ashraf Ayu (@Ashraf_Ayu) March 8, 2018
I wonder why @dhiraagu did NOT appeal like @Apple did on maintaining customers’ trust & their integrity..
Especially knowing the Corruption Index Level of our State.@Mirshan :(@OoredooMaldives :)
What @Dhiraagu did was a crime of the same magnitude as issuing an ID Card/Passport bearing @thayyib‘s photo & particulars for someone else to impersonate him. What an institutionalized criminal activity!#SIMcloningCompany pic.twitter.com/1fWj6GyEh6
— Imthiyaz Fahmy (@Imthiyazfahmy) March 8, 2018
More next week!
The Growling Swallet Track
The air is clean, crisp, and fresh. The only sounds are from birds and the wind rustling through the treetops. Enveloped by the endless green, it is easy to forget about the world beyond that hungers for the lives of these peaceful trees.
Tasmania, Australia (2018)
Shot with a GoPro Hero6 Black. Still learning how to make the most out of this camera. This time I focused on still shots. Didn't have much time so I didn't get some of the images that I now wish I had gotten in hindsight.
Music:
Prelude No. 1 by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution licence (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Source: http://chriszabriskie.com/preludes/
Artist: http://chriszabriskie.com/
Burakashi - Fikuru
Found a quick little music video I had made in 2014 for a song I released back in 2012.
Video via NASA / "The Overview Effect".
Download the music for free via: https://soundcloud.com/burakashi/burakashi-fikuru
Music sampling credits:
Sampling credits:
Native American E Minor Drone Flute By Kuzin Bruce - Tunnel Improvisation #1
https://youtu.be/PqxQ0XqZxG4
Visnumaai fikuru - Ali Rameez
https://youtu.be/CIsxlE8ip5w
Dhivehi madhaha; Dhuniye
https://youtu.be/SWTTgqS--s8
Journey to Duckhole Lake
Shot with a GoPro Hero6 Black.
One of Tasmania's "60 great short walks".
More information about Duckhole Lake
Music: Burakashi - Mushi Karuna
Available as a free download from my bandcamp.
Journey to the Tasman
Featuring the Tessellated Pavement, Blowhole, Tasman Arch, and the Devils Kitchen. Forester and Tasman Peninsula. Tasmania, Australia. (2017).
Learning how to document my days with the GoPro Hero6 Black.
Music: Blockhead - Daylight
Journey to the Valley of the Giants
Featuring the Big Tree, The Bigger Tree, and the Styx River.
Big Tree Reserve and Styx River. Styx Valley State Forest, Central Highlands, Tasmania, Australia. (2017)
Shot completely on a GoPro Hero6 Black.
Learning how to use the Hero6 has so far been a great experience. A really wonderful little device packed full of potential. Youtube's bitrate really doesn't do it justice. It's been an interesting experience adjusting from a purely photo driven mindset to video.
Music: Thievery Corporation - Satyam Shivam Sundaram (Feat Gunjan)
Fear of Humanity
There is not a moment where I am truly at ease. An innocent knock on the door in the middle of the day can create a crippling sense of dread. Is it just the postman? Or is it death come knocking? At night, it is even worse. What darkness lies at the end of the dim hall when I wake to relieve myself when all else is quiet?
There is not a moment where I am truly at ease. An innocent knock on the door in the middle of the day can create a crippling sense of dread. Is it just the postman? Or is it death come knocking? At night, it is even worse. What darkness lies at the end of the dim hall when I wake to relieve myself when all else is quiet?
You begin to wonder how it would feel. To have your flesh sliced open by a cold steel blade. To have your brethren mercilessly slash at your mortal coil until you lay dead in a pool of your own blood and sinew. Would it hurt? Who would find me first? Would it be the ones who are dearest to me? I think that would be the worst thing. To have your life stolen from you so that instead of joy, you leave behind terror; a warning.
What would people say of it? No doubt the first thing that would escape the lips of most Maldivians I know are questions about what I had said. How had I blasphemed. Why had I deserved it.
Am I perhaps being too harsh on Maldivians? I once brought up the subject of my impending demise to a close friend, a Muslim who isn’t from the Maldives. If Allah willed me to survive, the blade would miss he reasoned. And if I were to die, perhaps I would be cleansed of the sin of being an apostate. He even went so far as to suggest that maybe my would be killers are actually looking out for me, ensuring with my murder at their hands that I too would have a worthy place in heaven. All of this he said with a straight face. I became angry that day, but it was pointless. Some people will never understand what it is like to live in such fear and I must accept that.
It all begins to feel a little bit like a self fulfilling prophecy. When I was in high school I wrote and directed an absurdist stage play where I starred as the central character - an ice cream salesman with more than a passing resemblance to Hitler. The plot involved a man, a school teacher, with blue skin that hated difference. During the course of the play I would further corrupt this hypocrite, and together we would slowly murder the rest of the cast - a collection of odd people and creatures - with my poisoned explosive ice cream. At the end of the play, I meet my demise at the hands of the police who would shoot me to bits.
Ironically, it was a complete lack of trust of the Maldivian police that led me to seek the protection of another country; a country where my very existence would not be illegal. When someone from a Maldivian minority asks the police for help, they can always be sure that they will become the criminal; rather than the ones that seek to harm them. The cowardly attempt to murder Hilath Rasheed, and the brutal killing of Yameen Rasheed, and the police response to both incidents are proof of this fact. Both reported that their lives were in danger. Neither were taken seriously by those with the power to keep them safe. To make matters worse, it is no comfort that the fate of Ahmed Rilwan is still unknown.
Despite the protection of a sane police force and a government that respects my right to exist, the fear does not subside. The tentacles of radicalism grip the world in a chokehold. Some places are safer, yet nowhere is safe from those that suffer from that terrible affliction - a fear of humanity. A fear of thinking. A fear of living. A fear of love. A fear of sex. A fear of art. A fear of music. A fear of dancing. A fear of our own naked bodies. A fear of all those attributes that make us human.
It is past midnight. The crunch of footsteps outside breaks an uneasy silence. My senses heighten. Are they just walking down the road? Or are they coming up the path? I strain my ears. They’re coming up the path! It’s just my housemate, I tell myself, trying to calm myself down. But how could I know for sure? A sound at the front door. My heart pounds in my chest. A key turns a lock and the footsteps are now in the hallway. It must be my housemate. Only they have the keys. But how could I know for sure? Is this it? Are they inside the house? I look at my bedroom door. Will it suddenly burst open? The door is old and not very strong. What would I use to defend myself? Should I wake up my partner, who lies asleep next to me, blissfully unaware? A familiar cough breaks the silence. It is my housemate. Tonight, like all those other nights, I was safe all along.
But how could I know for sure? Paranoia might seem like a useless emotion, but what if you have a reason to be paranoid?What if my paranoia is the only thing that will ultimately keep me alive? I’d rather live in dread than leave behind a mangled corpse; spreading the terror of another mans agenda from beyond the grave. So I double check the locks at night. I stay awake until I can tire myself to sleep. I seek the demons in the shadows. I live with my fear of humanity, lest my humanity leave me.