Let's End Royal Welcomes for Public Servants

When we greet elected officials with the pomp of monarchs, we teach them that they rule over us. It's time to change the message.

The downpour has begun. The wind is quite strong. In this harsh weather, there is a long line of people waiting at the harbour area to greet President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu with flowers. Also seen are children dressed traditionally who are carrying bouquets of flowers. A few are clutching umbrellas, while the vast majority are soaked. From nearly every island on President Muizzu's current visit in Noonu Atoll, this is what I can see.

This is the traditional way that islands in the Maldives receive state officials, politicians, and presidents. We have welcomed our servants in this manner. But I think this needs to change.

Public officials, including presidents elected by the people, should not be treated with the same degree of royal pomp and circumstance as this. Our politicians and other public officials are here to serve us. It sends the incorrect message to greet them like royalty. The public is enslaved to them. Our politicians get the incorrect impression from this. By doing this, they will see that we are unconditionally supporting them. Because of this, they will be able to do whatever they want. They are our servants, so we expect them to be honest with the public.

Little things can convey a lot. Altering the manner of greeting is one matter.