The main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), staged a protest outside the Finance Ministry headquarters on Ameenee Magu in Male’ City, demanding action on the country’s worsening economic crisis. The demonstration, called “Lootuvaifi, Lootuvaifi,” escalated when Finance Minister Moosa Zameer refused to meet with protestors, sparking frustration among the crowd, which included MDP lawmakers.
The protest began around 10:30 am, with demonstrators gathering across the street from the Finance Ministry. They called for a meeting with Zameer to discuss their concerns about the nation’s economic troubles, including a shortage of US dollars, rising inflation, and billions of Rufiyaa in unpaid bills owed to private businesses. The MDP estimates these unpaid debts to be around MVR 14 million, though the government has not confirmed the exact amount.
As hours passed without a response from Zameer, the protestors grew angry. Chanting slogans like “Open the door!” and “You can’t hide from us!” they crossed the street and tried to enter the ministry building. Police blocked their way, stopping them from going inside. Some MDP lawmakers pushed past the officers and forced their way through the doors, while other protestors returned to their original spot across the street. The crowd also demanded Zameer’s resignation for refusing to address their concerns.
The MDP’s protest highlights the Maldives’ severe economic challenges. The country is struggling with a critical shortage of foreign currency, making it hard to pay for imports. Inflation is driving up prices, and the government owes large sums to businesses, hurting the private sector. President Muizzu had promised to clear these outstanding bills before Ramadan this year, but the debts remain unpaid.
Maldives faces massive external debt payments USD 600 million due this year and USD 1.1 billion due in 2026. These obligations are straining the nation’s finances, with official reserves dropping to USD 774.5 million in July 2025, down 2% from June, according to the Maldives Monetary Authority.The protest underscores growing public frustration with the government’s handling of the economy.
