Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid has criticized the government’s new civil service dress code, describing it as an attempt to control citizens’ personal lives and a violation of constitutional rights.
In a post on X, Shahid said the changes were part of a broader effort to restrict individual freedoms. “It’s about controlling everything in your personal life,” he wrote, adding that the measures were especially harsh on women and appeared designed to intimidate and exclude them from public spaces.
Shahid said the government was eroding basic rights guaranteed by the Constitution. “There is nothing to show in terms of achievements, no meaningful progress on any front,” he said. “When there is nothing to show, you resort to this kind of intimidation tactics.”
Civil servants existing Velaanaage Building. (Sun Photo / Mohamed Hayyaan)
His comments come amid widespread criticism of recent amendments to the Civil Servants Dress Code, which now specify the length and style of clothing for female employees in state offices. The new rules prohibit female staff from dyeing their hair and require their clothing to cover the neck and hips. While the amendment includes dress standards for male employees, it does not address male hairstyles.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu introduced the reforms several weeks ago, following public feedback during a community meeting. Two new articles were added to the civil service regulations, one detailing male dress standards, and another outlining specific requirements for female attire.