Renowned lawyer and former Attorney General Aisha Azima Shukoor has voiced concerns over the political environment in the Maldives, describing it as a democracy that "eats alive" anyone expressing dissenting opinions. Her remarks, shared on social media, highlight increasing intolerance for criticism and the underrepresentation of women in government.
Azima emphasized the importance of addressing the nation’s complex challenges through constructive dialogue, involving professionals, experts, and citizens. She stressed that criticism, whether for or against the government, should aim to advance the country’s progress.
Despite this, Azima expressed frustration with the current political culture, stating that activists frequently attack and discredit individuals who offer differing perspectives. She recounted her own experience, saying activists often fail to differentiate between political and constructive criticism, leading to negative perceptions of the government.
Azima stated that every time someone says something that activists do not like, they tend to verbally attack. Whether they are experts in tourism, distinguished civil servants, or professionals in other fields, it is enough to invite attacks, jokes, or mockery. This, she added, reflects poorly on the government.
Her comments also touched on the low participation of women in Maldivian politics, which she described as alarming. With only two women in the Cabinet and three in Parliament, Azima called for greater representation to reflect the country's educated and capable female population.
There are only two women in the Cabinet and three in Parliament. This is a worryingly small number given the educated and service-oriented population of the Maldives, said Azima. She also urged that we must speak out for all women and future generations of daughters, and if we don’t, no one else will.
Her criticism comes amidst public dissatisfaction following a recent cabinet reshuffle, which saw a female minister with expertise in Education sector, transferred from the Ministry of Higher Education to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
Azima’s remarks underscore growing concerns about the Maldives' political landscape and the urgent need for greater inclusivity and tolerance for diverse viewpoints.
Azima emphasized the importance of addressing the nation’s complex challenges through constructive dialogue, involving professionals, experts, and citizens. She stressed that criticism, whether for or against the government, should aim to advance the country’s progress.
Despite this, Azima expressed frustration with the current political culture, stating that activists frequently attack and discredit individuals who offer differing perspectives. She recounted her own experience, saying activists often fail to differentiate between political and constructive criticism, leading to negative perceptions of the government.
Azima stated that every time someone says something that activists do not like, they tend to verbally attack. Whether they are experts in tourism, distinguished civil servants, or professionals in other fields, it is enough to invite attacks, jokes, or mockery. This, she added, reflects poorly on the government.
Her comments also touched on the low participation of women in Maldivian politics, which she described as alarming. With only two women in the Cabinet and three in Parliament, Azima called for greater representation to reflect the country's educated and capable female population.
There are only two women in the Cabinet and three in Parliament. This is a worryingly small number given the educated and service-oriented population of the Maldives, said Azima. She also urged that we must speak out for all women and future generations of daughters, and if we don’t, no one else will.
Her criticism comes amidst public dissatisfaction following a recent cabinet reshuffle, which saw a female minister with expertise in Education sector, transferred from the Ministry of Higher Education to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
Azima’s remarks underscore growing concerns about the Maldives' political landscape and the urgent need for greater inclusivity and tolerance for diverse viewpoints.
