In a significant legal move, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has filed a claim in the Civil Court of the Maldives against activist Mariyam Zubair, also known as Mandhy, from Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). The lawsuit follows comments made by Mandhy Zubaie during an MDP protest, which targeted President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s 16-year-old son, Umair Mohamed Muizzu. These remarks have been criticized for endangering Umair, harming his education, and subjecting him to public harassment.
The controversy began when Mariyam Zubair, a senior activist of the MDP, made comments during a protest rally on 12th March 2025. She claimed that the recent vape ban in the Maldives was implemented because President Muizzu’s son was caught vaping. These allegations were widely shared on social media, leading to Umair’s photo being circulated with unfounded claims. The First Family has strongly denied these allegations, asserting that Umair has never used vape or cigarettes.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has taken legal action as a private citizen and a mother, emphasizing that her goal is to protect her child’s rights and ensure a safe environment for all children. The lawsuit claims that Mandhy Zubair’s remarks violated Umair’s dignity and his right to name and reputation, as guaranteed under the Maldivian Constitution and the Child Rights Protection Act (Act no. 19/2019) as well as the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The legal team also plans to sue MDP’s Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail and the MDP itself, citing legal liability since the remarks were made at an MDP-organized rally
The remarks made by Mariyam Zubair have been widely condemned by various institutions. The Office of the Children’s Ombudsperson, The Elections Commission (EC) and the Human Rights Commission (HRCM) have criticized the comments for being harmful to a child’s dignity and mental wellbeing. .
This legal action highlights the challenges faced by public figures’ families, particularly children, in the face of political rhetoric. It underscores the importance of protecting minors from political attacks and ensuring that their rights are respected. The case has been filed today, with further civil actions planned against those involved
The lawsuit filed by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed marks a significant step in asserting the legal rights of children in the Maldives, particularly in the context of political discourse. It emphasizes the need for responsible political engagement that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals, including minors.
