Government would not go against any Islamic principle: Minister

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that the present government would not go against any Islamic principle.

This remark by Dr Shaheem comes at a time when Dharumavantha Mosque has been shut down by Ministry of Home Affairs, in a move to prevent religious extremism.

“Some media have reported that the mosque might be demolished, or people might be arrested while they are praying at the mosque. The present government, the government of President Yameen Abdul Gayoom, would not do anything against Islamic principles. They would not demolish the mosque, or inflict injury on anyone unjustly,” he said.

He stressed that religious differences must be solved through dialogue, and called on all groups to facilitate discussions which are attended by religious scholars.

“Those who pray separately at certain mosques, please come to us. Let’s discuss this matter. There’s nothing that can’t be solved if we sit down and share religious information,” he said.

Dharumavantha Mosque was shut down after morning prayer on 14 February, but a crowd congregated for Friday prayer later that day - and prayed for the downfall of the government.

Male’ City Council has said that it might have to involve the police if its announcement regarding shutting down the mosque continues to go unheeded.