Maumoon Abdul Gayoom

4.1.1. 1980 Assassination Attempt

In February 1980, former president Ibrahim Nasir, along with his brother-in-law Ahmed Naseem, Health Minister Mohamed Musthafa Hussain, and businessman Mohamed Yusuf, hired nine former members of the British Special Air Service (SAS) to carry out an assassination and coup attempt against Gayoom. The mercenaries reportedly operated from a base in Sri Lanka, conducting several reconnaissance trips in preparation for the mission. They were provided with arms and promised a payment of 60.00 K USD each for their services. However, the assassination attempt was ultimately called off by the SAS operatives due to emerging doubts about the operation.

4.1.2. 1987 Great Wave

On 11 April 1987, a devastating tidal wave, often referred to as the "Great Wave," struck Malé, severely affecting 16 islands across 13 atolls and causing damages estimated at 90.00 M MVR. This disaster is considered one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in Maldivian history.

In an interview during the early 00s, Gayoom recounted the event: "I was driving around Malé, looking around various sites where damage had been done, and all of a sudden there was a very high wave which came into Malé, and it dragged the vehicle I was driving. And the people there, they held onto the vehicle, and in fact, they saved me. Otherwise, I would have been dragged into the sea."

The wave caused significant damage to both the outer and inner seawalls of Malé. In response, the Maldivian government sought assistance from Japan, which sent a team of scientists to assess the situation. The Japanese government later supported the reconstruction of the damaged seawalls, helping the country recover from the disaster. The event drew international attention to the vulnerabilities of small island nations. Gayoom addressed this issue at the 1987 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, proposing the formation of a group of experts to study the impacts of climate change on small island states and low-lying nations. His proposal was adopted at the meeting, and he also brought the issue to the United Nations General Assembly, becoming the first world leader to speak about climate change on a global stage.

4.1.3. 1988 Coup Attempt

On 3 November 1988, an attempted coup d'état was launched against Gayoom by a group of Maldivians, along with armed mercenaries from the Sri Lankan Tamil militant organization, the People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE). The coup was arranged by Abdullah Luthufi, a Maldivian businessman, who sought to overthrow Gayoom's government due to dissatisfaction with the political landscape and perceived lack of opportunities for dissent. Luthufi believed that an outside force was necessary to facilitate this change, as local electoral processes were deemed ineffective. His close association with PLOTE allowed him to negotiate for military support in the form of an 80-member raiding party. Strategic discussions regarding a sea-borne raid began in 1987, influenced by the deployment of the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka. Additionally, Luthufi secured support from sympathetic members of the Maldivian military, highlighting the complexities of the political situation during Gayoom's rule.

Gayoom reached out to neighboring and other countries for assistance, contacting India, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Singapore for military aid. Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi responded promptly, and within hours, India launched Operation Cactus. Indian paratroopers were airlifted to the Maldives and landed in Malé on the same day, securing key locations and restoring order. The Indian intervention was decisive, with the coup leaders unable to mount resistance once foreign troops arrived. Many of the PLOTE mercenaries were captured, while others fled the country.

The coup attempt was effectively quashed within hours of the Indian military's arrival. The quick resolution of the coup attempt strengthened Gayoom's position, and he publicly expressed gratitude towards the Indian government for its timely intervention. Following the coup attempt, planner Abdullah Luthufi and his assistant Sagar Nasir were sentenced to death. However, according to Gayoom, the sentences were reduced to a life sentence of 25 years. A small number of Indian soldiers remained in Malé for a year to protect Gayoom from further threats.

4.1.4. 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami

The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was a major turning point in Gayoom's presidential administration. In response, President Gayoom addressed the nation on the evening of the disaster, stating that citizens should work together with the government to recover from the losses.

The tsunami caused extensive devastation, resulting in the loss of more than three decades of development and an estimated 62% of the country's GDP, with a damage cost of approximately 460.00 M USD. According to World Bank estimates, the Maldives experienced a GDP growth rate of 13.75% in 2003; however, this plummeted to -11.223% in 2004 as a direct consequence of the tsunami. Regardless of various recovery efforts, many damages remained unresolved by the end of Gayoom's presidency.

Gayoom declared a state of emergency following the national disaster on the same day, and a special task force was established to deliver aid and supplies. Rescue efforts were hindered by the loss of communication with the nation's over 1,000 islands, as well as the lack of sufficient disaster planning.

4.1.5. 2007 Malé Bombing and 2008 Assassination Attempt

Following the first bomb explosion in Malé on 29 September 2007, which targeted foreign tourists, the government, under President Gayoom, expressed serious concern over the rising threat of Islamic extremism. In response, the government initiated measures to address religious fundamentalism and militancy. Authorities declared that clerics or mullahs with beards would be prohibited from entering the country unless specifically invited by the government.

On 8 January 2008, while Gayoom was visiting Hoarafushi in Haa Alif Atoll, Mohamed Murshid attempted to stab Gayoom in the stomach with a kitchen knife. The attack was thwarted by Mohamed Jaisham Ibrahim, a 16-year-old boy scout from Kudahuvadhoo, who intervened and blocked the attack with his own hands. Jaisham sustained injuries during this act and required medical treatment. Following the incident, Gayoom stated, "By the grace of Almighty Allah, I am well and safe, but severe injuries have been inflicted on this brave young man from this island, Mohamed Jaisham. He is a true hero. I sincerely thank him and his family, and I pray to Almighty Allah for his speedy recovery."

4.2.1. Health and Education Reforms

Education and healthcare policies were among the most important subjects prioritized during Gayoom's presidential administration. When he became president in 1978, the Maldives lacked a formal education system beyond the capital, Malé, where only two secondary schools and basic educational infrastructure existed. In early 1979, his government conducted a study that revealed 24.77% of the population was illiterate. In response, the government launched the "Basic Education Project" in January 1980, aimed at eradicating illiteracy. The project began the following month, with the start of teaching basic education classes. Over time, the initiative significantly reduced the illiteracy rate, bringing it down to 1.06% by 1999.

Gayoom made education a key priority, aiming to expand access across the country. His government began by establishing primary schools in the atolls, with Gayoom personally inaugurating the first in South Miladhunmadulu Atoll in March 1979, months after assuming office. A national curriculum was introduced, and efforts were made to provide seven years of primary education to Maldivian children. Additionally, two secondary schools were established in the atolls, reducing the need for students to move to Malé for higher education. The number of students sitting for the General Certificate of Education (GCE) Ordinary Level examinations grew from 102 in 1978 to 6,495 in 2002. Total student enrollment increased from around 15,000 in 1978 to 97,323 in 1998, and the literacy rate improved from 70% to 98.82% by the same year. By 1999, 254 schools with 2,646 teachers were providing education up to Grade 10.

Gayoom's administration introduced many healthcare reforms in the late 1970s when the Maldives had limited medical facilities, including just one small hospital and basic health services. His government prioritized improving maternal and child health, contributing to an increase in life expectancy from 48 years in 1978 to 71 years by 1998. Universal immunization was achieved by 1990, and the government implemented measures to combat communicable diseases. Gayoom's administration also launched public health campaigns promoting healthy living, balanced diets, and the risks of tobacco consumption. By 1998, the physician to population ratio had improved from one per 20,700 people in 1978 to one per 1,300 people, and hospital bed capacity increased nearly tenfold.

4.2.2. Economic Development

During Gayoom's administration, tourism became the largest industry in the Maldives, a status it continues to hold. By the 1980s, tourism accounted for 28% of the nation's GDP and more than 60% of its foreign exchange receipts. This sector played a critical role in driving economic growth, with GDP per capita expanding by 265% during the 1980s and a further 115% in the 1990s. The tourism industry's rapid development underpinned the Maldives' economic success, and this expansion provided a steady source of income and foreign currency, which helped to stabilize the economy during Gayoom's rule.

Under Gayoom's leadership, the tourism industry was restructured in 1979 with the introduction of the Tourism Act, which established regulations to manage entry into the sector through capacity control. These measures improved standards in existing resorts and increased profitability. By the end of the 20th century, tourism became a vital part of the Maldivian economy, contributing to GDP and providing a crucial source of foreign currency.

Gayoom's government initiated economic reforms in 1989, aimed at liberalizing the economy. These reforms included lifting import quotas and opening certain sectors for export to private enterprises. The liberalization also extended to foreign investment regulations, encouraging more international involvement in the Maldivian economy. The nation's GDP grew rapidly, with the gross domestic product rising from 440.00 M MVR in 1980 to 10.46 B MVR by 2005, according to International Monetary Fund estimates.

Throughout the 1980s, the Maldivian economy experienced relatively low inflation, with real GDP growth averaging around 10%. The year 1990 saw an exceptional GDP growth rate of 16.2%, although this figure declined to 4% by 1993. Despite the slowdown, the economy continued to perform strongly, with an average real GDP growth of over 7.5% per year from 1995 to 2004. The sustained growth during this period was largely driven by a combination of tourism, fishing, and increased foreign investment, which helped the country weather regional economic challenges.

The Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004, however, caused a sharp contraction in the economy, with a GDP loss of approximately 62%. Nevertheless, the Maldivian economy demonstrated resilience, rebounding strongly with a 13% growth rate in 2006. The recovery was driven by a revival in tourism and infrastructure development efforts, supported by international aid and investments. Under Gayoom's administration, the Maldives managed to maintain steady economic growth, regardless of external shocks, while fostering a more open and diversified economy.

4.2.3. Environmental Advocacy

During his presidency, Gayoom was a strong advocate for environmental protection and climate diplomacy, both nationally and internationally. His administration became one of the first to bring international attention to the potential consequences of climate change for low-lying nations. In 1987, following severe flooding that inundated much of the capital, Malé, Gayoom recognized the looming threat posed by rising sea levels and environmental degradation. He became the first-ever world leader to address the United Nations General Assembly on the dangers of climate change, urging urgent global action on what was, at the time, still a relatively unknown issue.

Gayoom's landmark "Death of a Nation" speech at the UNGA is often credited as one of the earliest and most influential calls for global cooperation in combating climate change. His warnings about the vulnerability of small island nations like the Maldives highlighted the risks posed by global warming and sea level rise, issues that were not widely recognized at the time. This intervention marked the beginning of the Maldives' active participation in global climate diplomacy, reinforcing the nation's commitment to advocating for the protection of environmentally fragile states on the international stage.

In addition to his efforts within the Maldives, Gayoom also spearheaded regional environmental cooperation. Under his leadership, the Maldives played an important role in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Study on the causes and consequences of natural disasters and the Protection and Preservation of the Environment. This helped build regional awareness of environmental risks, particularly in relation to natural disasters and the long-term impacts of environmental degradation. Gayoom's focus on regional cooperation helped to enhance the Maldives' preparedness for climate-related challenges. In 1989, the Maldives hosted the first Small States Conference on Sea Level Rise, signing the "Malé Declaration on Global Warming and Sea Level Rise," a treaty urging nations to recognize sea level rise as a global security threat and take urgent action to mitigate its impacts. In 2007, representatives of Small Island Developing States signed the "Malé Declaration on the Human Dimension of Global Climate Change", a treaty signed by representatives of Small Island Developing States to highlight the critical links between climate change and human rights.

Furthermore, Gayoom's government initiated the SAARC Study on the Greenhouse effect and its impact on the region. In 1989, Gayoom initiated the Commonwealth Study on Climate Change, which focused on the effects of global warming on Commonwealth nations, particularly small island states. The study, reviewed in 1991, highlighted the pressing need for international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by rising sea levels and other environmental threats. Gayoom's proactive approach in commissioning and participating in climate-change and environmental topics helped establish the Maldives as a global leader in climate diplomacy and advocacy for small island states.

4.2.4. Political Reforms

A month after Gayoom assumed presidency, the Citizen's Majlis passed the bill to amend the constitution. By 1980, Gayoom declared to form a special constitutional assembly, consisting of cabinet members and parliamentarians, to amend the constitution. After an 18-year process, the amended constitution was finalized, and by November 1997, Gayoom ratified the constitution. In 1998, the new constitution came into effect, declaring the Maldives a democratic republic (though it did not fully follow democratic principles, maintaining a single-candidate referendum system for presidential elections and banning political parties).

In June 2004, Gayoom launched the "democratic reform agenda" in response to growing calls for political liberalization and greater civil liberties, amidst rising discontent and a demand for more open political systems. Over the following years, notable progress was made: a National Human Rights Commission adhering to international standards was established, political parties were introduced for the first time in 2005, media freedom was granted, and the criminal justice system was modernized.

In 2007, after several rounds of negotiations with opposition parties, particularly the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), an agreement was reached. The MDP pledged not to engage in violence, while the government committed to releasing political detainees and accelerating the reform process. However, concerns over the pace of reforms remained, with some doubting the government's full commitment to change.

By 2008, Gayoom emphasized the progress achieved through his reform agenda. The drafting of a new constitution was nearing completion, aimed at facilitating the transition to a fully liberal democracy. The new constitution introduced a clearer separation of powers, stronger human rights protections, and established independent institutions, including an autonomous Elections Commission and a Supreme Court. This constitution, finalized later in 2008, marked a turning point in Maldivian political history. It introduced a multi-party system, limited the presidency to two five-year terms, and created the framework for greater transparency and accountability. Gayoom's administration also prepared for the country's first multi-party presidential election, proposing legislative reforms to guarantee the elections met international standards.

4.2.5. Human Rights Policy and Controversies

Gayoom's presidency was marked by controversy, particularly regarding human rights issues. International human rights organizations and foreign governments have accused his administration of employing tactics against dissidents, including arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, forced confessions, and politically motivated killings. Reports indicated that security forces were sometimes used to intimidate opposition figures.

Criticism of Gayoom's governance came from various quarters, including foreign nations such as those within the European Union and the Commonwealth of Nations, which expressed concerns over his long-term rule and described it as autocratic. Critics highlighted issues related to the abuse of power, and some characterized his leadership style as dictatorial, pointing to limitations on political freedoms. The complex nature of his legacy continues to be a topic of discussion, with supporters citing developmental achievements while critics emphasize human rights violations and the suppression of democratic aspirations.

Towards the end of his presidency, Gayoom apologized for his actions, saying:
: "If any Maldivian citizen has had to endure undeserved hardship or distress due to a policy I implemented, a decision I made, or due to my failure to give proper attention where it was needed, I sincerely regret it. And if any citizen has experienced such a situation, I humbly ask for generous forgiveness from that citizen."

4.3.1. Relations with Middle East and Asia

During his presidency, Gayoom took a firm stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which was a defining feature of his foreign policy. Within a week of taking office in 1978, Gayoom severed the diplomatic relations with Israel that had been established under the previous administration of Ibrahim Nasir. Gayoom supported an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, arguing that this move was necessary to align with the Maldives' broader support for Palestinian self-determination. In 1984, Gayoom invited Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat to the Maldives, and he undertook a state visit in July the same year.

Gayoom also attempted economic partnerships to strengthen ties with Palestine. His administration launched "Maldives Airways" in collaboration with the Palestinian government, with a fleet of four airplanes. However, the airline faced financial challenges, attributed to international sanctions and economic pressure, which led to its bankruptcy by 1984. Due to the airline's failure, Gayoom's administration continued efforts to support Palestine through other means, such as organizing nationwide fundraising campaigns, with donation boxes set up throughout the Maldives.

During Gayoom's presidency, his foreign policy towards South and East Asia was centered on strengthening ties with key regional players, particularly India, China, and Japan. Gayoom maintained a close relationship with India, which was pivotal during the 1988 coup attempt when India responded with "Operation Cactus" to protect his government.

Gayoom sought to balance the Maldives' foreign policy by establishing ties with China, especially as China's influence in the Indian Ocean grew through infrastructure investments and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). These relationships demonstrated Gayoom's pragmatic approach to foreign policy, ensuring the Maldives benefited from both regional powers without becoming overly dependent on one. China's growing presence was evident in infrastructure projects such as airports and bridges, but the administration was careful to avoid granting military footholds to Beijing, which would have alarmed India. In October 1984, Gayoom made the first visit to China by a Maldivian head of state since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1972. The visit was made at the invitation of Chinese president. Upon touching down, Gayoom was greeted by Chinese president Li Xiannian. During the trip, an agreement on economic and technical cooperation was signed between the governments of China and the Maldives.

4.3.2. Relations with Africa, Europe, and the United States

Gayoom's tenure as president saw the Maldives strengthening ties with African nations, particularly through multilateral organizations such as the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations, where he sought cooperation on shared challenges, such as climate change and development initiatives. He established relations with more than 25 countries in the African continent during his presidential administration. He strongly advocated for the complete and rapid eradication of apartheid and supported the South African people's right to self-determination. His vocal opposition to apartheid strengthened the Maldives' standing in international forums, where he consistently called for the end of racial oppression and supported liberation movements in Africa.

: "The situation in southern Africa continues to constitute a threat to the peace and security of the region. We in the Maldives strongly object to the policy of apartheid and racial discrimination since it violates all fundamental human values. We emphasize the need for the total and speedy eradication of apartheid and for the exercise, by the South African people, of their legitimate right to self-determination."
: - Statement by Gayoom to the UNGA, 1976

In the Middle East, Gayoom prioritized relations with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states. Saudi Arabia was a crucial ally, providing financial aid, religious scholarships, and investments that supported the Maldives' development. Diplomatic exchanges between the two nations were frequent, and the relationship was anchored in Islamic solidarity. Gayoom's government also sought to deepen ties with other Gulf countries like Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. These partnerships focused on economic cooperation, with the Gulf states contributing to various infrastructure projects in the Maldives. In 1981, Gayoom established diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and the Maldives in history.

In the realm of security, the Maldives sought to strengthen ties with the United States to enhance its national security and regional stability. Given its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives was seen as an important partner in U.S. efforts to combat piracy and terrorism in the region. Gayoom's government actively cooperated with the U.S. on maritime security initiatives and participated in international discussions concerning security challenges. This cooperation was mutually beneficial, as it provided the Maldives with increased visibility on the global stage while aligning with U.S. interests in ensuring a secure maritime environment.

During the presidency of Gayoom, relations between the Maldives and the United States were marked by cooperation and economic support. The U.S. contributed to the Maldives' economic development mainly through international organization programs. Following the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the two countries signed a bilateral assistance agreement, providing 8.60 M USD for reconstruction efforts. This aid was directed towards rebuilding harbors, sewage systems, and electrical generation facilities, while also helping the Ministry of Finance improve its capacity to manage and absorb international assistance.

During his presidency, the Maldives established and nurtured strong relations with various European countries, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism, and development cooperation. The Maldives became an attractive destination for European tourists, which boosted its economy and helped the nation diversify its income sources. European nations, particularly the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy, played a crucial role in promoting Maldivian tourism, contributing to the growth of the hospitality industry and infrastructure development.

4.3.3. International Engagements and Trips

Gayoom made a number of visits to more than 35 countries during his 30 years of presidency. His first visit following his first inauguration was to Libya to attend 1 September Revolution celebrations in the country in September 1979. He became the first Maldivian president to visit Libya, Senegal, and South Africa. At the end of his presidency, Gayoom had visited India over sixteen times in various capacities, making him the Maldivian president with the most visits to India.

In May 1981, he conducted state visits to neighboring Asian countries, Singapore and Malaysia. His first visit to a Western country as president was on 10 May 1982, to London. In October 1982, he participated as chairman of the Regional Meeting of Commonwealth Governments in Fiji. In March 1984, he conducted a state visit to Sri Lanka to improve deteriorating relations between the two countries. In 1983, he made a state visit to North Korea. In October of the same year, he visited South Korea, where he was awarded the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the highest medal in the Republic of Korea. He, in turn, conferred the Maldivian Order of Nishan Izzuddeen upon President Chun Doo Hwan.

He attended every Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) Summit since 1981, including those in Saudi Arabia (1981), Morocco (1984, 1994), Kuwait (1987), and Senegal (1991), and Pakistan (1997).

5.3.1. Reactions to Arrest

Domestic protests and international reactions came quickly; Maldivians started protesting the following day as the government declared a state of emergency. International organizations, including the United Nations, expressed concern over the political situation, condemning the arrest as part of a broader "attack on democracy" in the Maldives. The UN urged the Maldivian government to respect judicial independence and fundamental freedoms, criticizing the suppression of dissent and the crackdown on political opponents. Human rights groups also voiced their opposition to Gayoom's detention, calling for his immediate release and for the government to uphold democratic norms.

Domestically, Gayoom's arrest deepened the political divide in the country. Opposition leaders, including former President Mohamed Nasheed, condemned the arrest and called for international intervention. Nasheed appealed to India and the United States to step in, asserting that Yameen's actions threatened the rule of law and democratic governance in the Maldives. It is widely believed that the crisis resulted in Yameen's defeat in the 2018 presidential election.