Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Thinadhoo Council has banned sports and entertainment events during Ramadan, calling to prioritize prayers during the month instead.
In an announcement made today, the Council thanked the residents of Thinadhoo for the example they had set during Ramadan the previous year. They then called on residents to refrain from organizing any sports or entertainment events during the days, and especially nights, of Ramadan, and to instead focus on prioritizing prayers.
The council said that sports and entertainment activities cannot be held in spaces issued for social events, or any other places. They further called on residents to refrain from holding such activities even in their homes.
The council also said that official events, which are not considered as entertainment or sports, also cannot be held unless absolutely necessary. However, religious events related to Ramadan are allowed.
In the instance that Ramadan related events are to be held, they must be planned ahead and notified to relevant authorities. These, too, must be held at times that do not coincide with prayer times and in a manner that does not inconvenience the public.
Fields and areas designated for health and exercise reasons will also be open only at specific times during Ramadan, they said.
The Council said that those who do not cooperate with these measures outlined by them, or deliberately act against them, will not receive the Council's cooperation in any matter. Where necessary, action will also be taken against them.