Fayyaz calls for compensation after cancellation of Björn Again concert

Former Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail has criticised the government's handling of the cancellation of the Björn Again concert, calling for compensation to be paid to businesses that incurred losses following the decision.

The concert by the Australian ABBA tribute band was scheduled to take place on Thursday night at the Social Centre. However, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts withdrew permission for the venue hours before the performance, prompting organisers to cancel the event.

In a post on X on Wednesday night, Fayyaz described the government's actions as "cowardly" and questioned why the reason for the decision had not been clearly explained.

"This is a cowardly government that lacks the courage to clearly state the reason it stopped the show. Revoking the Social Centre permit more than 50 days after granting approval and allowing public advertising has caused irreparable harm to the participating businesses," he said.

Fayyaz said the government should compensate the event organisers for the losses incurred.

He also argued that the cost of any compensation should be recovered by the state from the minister responsible for the decision.

"The government must not be allowed the freedom to destroy people's businesses like this," he said.

Fayyaz added that if permission had not been granted in the first place, businesses would not have suffered financial losses. He also accused the government of harming the arts and private enterprise.

The comments came after the government denied reports that it had ordered the cancellation of the concert.

President's Office Chief Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef told Dhauru earlier on Wednesday that the government had not instructed organisers to cancel the event but had instead requested that it be moved to another venue. He referred further questions to the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts.

Youth Minister Abdulla Rafiu later told several media outlets that the decision to cancel the concert had been taken by the organisers. He said the ministry had requested a change of venue after technical issues affecting the stage at the Social Centre required urgent maintenance.

The cancellation has prompted public debate, with many criticising the government's handling of the matter. Some government supporters, however, welcomed the decision, arguing that it reflected religious values and alleging that the tribute band promotes same-sex relationships.