Removal of yellow from RTL branding draws criticism

The decision to alter the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) branding, originally introduced by the previous government, has prompted criticism from members of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

The RTL public ferry and bus transport system was launched under the MDP-led administration and continues to be operated by the current government. However, changes to the RTL brand—specifically, the replacement of yellow in the logo with grey—have led to accusations of political bias in the rebranding process.

The yellow colour, previously featured alongside blue and white in RTL’s logo and vessel design, has been removed. The latest update to the branding became more widely noticed when RTL began operations in Baa Atoll on Monday, where newly deployed speedboats bore the updated logo.

MDP MP and lawyer Ahmed Mauroof criticised the move, stating that removing yellow from RTL’s branding does not change the origins of the project. “This is like the DRP once painting a banana blue. It is a very stupid and crazy act,” he said, referencing an incident in which supporters of the now-defunct Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) painted bananas blue in protest against the MDP.

Other social media users echoed the criticism. One commenter wrote: “Even if you change the yellow colour in the logo, the original start of the service will not be deceived.” The same commenter added that the government should not attempt to mask the work done by previous administrations.

Another person criticised the rebranding, saying that public funds and resources should not be spent on what they described as unnecessary changes.

While the RTL branding has undergone visual changes, the government has not made an official announcement about the redesign. No explanation has been provided regarding the decision to remove yellow from the original colour scheme.

The RTL transport network was launched during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih as part of a broader effort to connect islands across the country through ferry and bus services.