Mohamed Firaq, CEO of Inner Maldives, has called on the government and relevant authorities to investigate a video circulating on social media that allegedly shows a wedding ceremony between two men at a Maldivian resort.
In a social media post, Firaq stated that while the Maldives has been a leading tourism destination for half a century, all operators must respect the country’s laws, regulations and cultural norms. He noted that foreign investment does not exempt resorts from compliance with local law.
Snapshots from the video show two men holding hands in attire consistent with a symbolic ceremony. Firaq urged authorities to take legal action if the incident is confirmed. Other commentators have also criticised the video, while some have said such events have occurred for years and are difficult to prevent entirely.
The Maldives prohibits same-sex marriage under its constitution and penal code. Tourism authorities have previously emphasised that resorts must operate within the legal framework of the country.
