President Muizzu Faces Backlash After Canceling Meeting with Maldivians in Pakistan

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who came to power on a promise to prioritize Maldivians, has faced sharp criticism after canceling a planned meeting with Maldivian expatriates during his recent official visit to Pakistan. The meeting, which had been confirmed two weeks in advance and for which invitations were issued, was called off at the last minute without any official explanation. At least 20 Maldivians living in Pakistan expressed their disappointment in a joint statement on social media, saying they had prepared for the meeting after receiving repeated assurances from the Maldives High Commission in Islamabad that it would take place. One Maldivian student in Pakistan also voiced frustration over being left in the dark after the High Commission had confirmed the meeting. The cancellation came amid growing financial hardships for Maldivians abroad, including delayed scholarship payments from the government and difficulties accessing dollars through bank cards. Many have questioned why the President cancelled the meeting while First Lady Sajidha Mohamed found time to give an exclusive interview to a Pakistani fashion and lifestyle magazine. During the three-day trip, the President and First Lady signed 20 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) between the two countries. However, the lack of engagement with the Maldivian community and the absence of any official response to the controversy have drawn widespread criticism. The government has not yet issued a statement addressing the issue.