Following strong public backlash to the announcement that a new, modern mosque will be built to replace the 100-year-old Bandaara Mosque, Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has changed his stance and expressed willingness to enter discussions.
In the Islamic Ministry media group, Minister Shaheem said yesterday that a large, modern mosque will be developed on the Bandaara Mosque site after Ramadan. He said that the project is being funded by a private benefactor.
"With this, all large mosques in Male' will be modernized. Alhamdhulillaahi," Shaheem's message read.
As soon as this was reported in media, concerns arose from the public and history enthusiasts, with numerous calls to protect Bandara mosque and preserve history.
Shaheem responded to the criticism with a post on X, where he said that the Bandaara Mosque cite had been considered for redevelopment because the mosque was not listed amongst Maldives' heritage mosques. He assured that the ministry will only proceed with projects after taking into account public sentiments.
"I wish to hold extensive discussions about the redevelopment of a new mosque there," Shaheem said.
Located near the Republic Square and STO Supermart, Bandara mosque is said to have been built by Bohra traders who were influenced by the beliefs of Shiites who came to exert influence over the Maldives about 100 years ago. At that time, the mosque was called Bumba Mosque and was later renamed as Bandaara Mosque.
