The government stated yesterday that festive lights will be put up at certain places in cities only for the upcoming Eid holidays.
A special committee that is working to solve the difficulties faced by Maldivians due to the ongoing war in the Middle East convened at the President's Office yesterday evening for a press conference, where Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel answered a journalist's question, stating that the decision has been made to not affix Eid lights at islands in order to reduce government expenditure.
"The Fitr Eid lights will not be put up at islands, they will be put up at Maldives' five cities. This will be at predetermined locations as well," said the Foreign Minister.
"The decision to not put up lights at islands is a step being taken by the government to reduce expenditure."
The Eid lights will be set up at Male', HDh. Kulhudhuffushi, GDh. Thinadhoo, Fuvahmulah and Addu.
The government's decision to affix lights at the roads of Male' and other islands as fuel prices have gone up due to the war in the Middle East and the decision where government companies are to host many Eid activities has drawn public criticism.
Putting up colored lights and arches in celebration of Eid at Male', Hulhumale' and Villimale' is something that was started in 2023 when President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was the Mayor of Male'.
Since the President took office, Eid lights have been put up every year at Male' and other islands in celebration of Eid. Last year's celebration saw lights be set up at 65 islands at the government's expense.
