Addu council alleges influence in last-minute cancellation of fireworks event

The Addu City Council has raised concern over the cancellation of a fireworks display planned for the opening of Hithadhoo Central Park, stating that the decision was taken at short notice.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the council said the display had been scheduled as part of Eid celebrations during the opening ceremony held on Friday.

The council said the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), through SIFCO, withdrew the service shortly before the event.

SIFCO is the entity responsible for conducting fireworks displays in the Maldives.

According to the council, arrangements for the display had been made two months in advance and payments had been completed.

The council said equipment had been transported to the site and preparations were carried out before the event.

However, shortly before the ceremony, the council said it received an email from SIFCO stating that the display could not proceed due to technical issues.

“In violation of the agreement, SIFCO removed their equipment from the venue and departed,” the council said in its statement.

The council also stated that it believes the decision was influenced by external factors.

The MNDF has not issued a comment on the matter.

The council said it expects services provided by state institutions to be carried out in accordance with agreements.