Concerns over school's removal of opposition MP's bio
Social media discussions have suggested that the removal was due to government pressure. However, the school denied this claim.
Jamaluddin School has removed a social media post featuring a brief introduction of opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem from its Facebook and X pages, prompting public outcry.
As part of its 40th-anniversary celebrations, the school has been sharing introductions of notable alumni. Meekail, a graduate of the school and an active politician, was also featured. However, the post was later deleted, drawing criticism on social media.
In a statement issued Thursday, Jamaluddin School did not mention Meekail by name but stated that the post was removed following concerns from parents. The statement cited concerns that certain behaviours exhibited by a former student should not be presented as an example for current students.
Social media discussions have suggested that the removal was due to government pressure. However, the school denied this claim.
"There have been reports that this post was deleted by Facebook and X under pressure from the Ministry of Education, but that is not true," the statement read.
Meekail was involved in political activities while studying for his A-Levels and openly expressed his political views. The school noted that his actions were "outside the ethical standards accepted by the institution."
Meekail was also present in front of the president during the presidential address in parliament Thursday. The school had initially highlighted that he was the youngest member of parliament ever elected.
Some have described Meekail as a top student during his time at Jamaluddin School. He thanked the school for recognising him but wrote on social media that he believes the post was removed due to government pressure.
Referring to the school’s statement, Meekail wrote, "The extent of political influence on this school is very clear." He included a photograph of President Mohamed Muizzu attending a past demonstration against India, stating, "The man who led a protest in Male against the Indian Prime Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic is now being praised."
