Early Life and Education

Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was born on June 15, 1978, in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. From an early age, Muizzu demonstrated a keen interest in engineering and public service. He attended Majeediyya School, the oldest school in the Maldives, where he laid the foundation for his future academic and professional pursuits.

Muizzu furthered his education in the United Kingdom, obtaining both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Structural Engineering from the University of London. His academic journey continued at the University of Leeds, where he earned a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering in 2009. Additionally, he holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI) in the United States.

Early Career

In 1998, Muizzu began his career in government service as a Construction & Public Works Planning Technician Trainee at the Ministry of Construction and Public Works. This role marked the start of his extensive involvement in the development and infrastructure sectors in the Maldives.

Political Career

Muizzu’s political career is marked by significant roles and achievements. He served as the Minister of Housing and Environment from 2012 to 2018. During his tenure, he oversaw major infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Sinamalé Bridge, the first inter-island bridge in Maldivian history, which connected Malé with Hulhulé.

In 2021, Muizzu made history by winning the mayoral election in Malé, becoming the first directly elected Mayor of the city. His victory was a significant milestone, defeating the candidate from the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party and securing a five-year term.

Rise to Presidency

Muizzu’s ascent to the presidency began in the political turbulence following the incarceration of former President Abdulla Yameen on corruption charges. The People’s National Congress (PNC) nominated Muizzu as their presidential candidate after Yameen was disqualified from running for re-election.

In the 2023 presidential election, Muizzu represented the PNC and triumphed over the incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. His victory marked a significant shift in Maldivian politics, as he assumed office on November 17, 2023, becoming the 9th President of the Maldives.

Presidential Initiatives and Policies

As president, Muizzu has taken on multiple key roles, including leader of the PPM–PNC Coalition and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. His administration has focused on several critical areas:

• National Sovereignty: Muizzu has emphasized safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of the Maldives. This includes the removal of foreign troops and the termination of undisclosed agreements with other nations that he deemed harmful to Maldivian sovereignty.
• Infrastructure Development: Continuing his focus from his previous roles, Muizzu has prioritized housing and infrastructure projects.
• Legislative Reforms: He has been actively involved in implementing government policies and legislative reforms aimed at improving governance and transparency.

Personal Life

Mohamed Muizzu is married to Sajidha Mohamed, and together they have three children: two sons, Umair and Zaid, and a daughter, Yasmin. His family is notable in Maldivian public life; his half-sister, Saudha, is a PNC candidate for the Nilandhoo constituency. His father, Sheikh Hussain Abdul Rahman, was a respected judge and religious scholar who received the National Award of Honour in 2013 for his contributions to religious education.

Physical Attributes

Muizzu stands at approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm), with dark brown eyes and salt-and-pepper hair, reflecting his distinguished presence both in public and private life.

Hobbies and Interests

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Muizzu enjoys reading and traveling, activities that complement his extensive academic background and global perspective.

Legacy and Impact

As the current President of the Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu continues to shape the nation’s political landscape with his policies and leadership. His journey from an engineering student to the highest office in the country underscores his commitment to public service and development.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mohamed Muizzu

Q1: Who is Mohamed Muizzu?

Mohamed Muizzu is a Maldivian politician currently serving as the 9th President of the Maldives. He assumed office on November 17, 2023, after winning the presidential election as the candidate of the People’s National Congress.

Q2: What is Mohamed Muizzu’s educational background?

Mohamed Muizzu holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering from the University of London and a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Leeds. He also holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI) in the United States.

Q3: What positions did Mohamed Muizzu hold before becoming President?

Before becoming President, Muizzu served as the Minister of Housing and Environment from 2012 to 2018, and as the Mayor of Malé from 2021 until his resignation in 2023. He has also held roles within the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and the People’s National Congress (PNC).

Q4: What are some key initiatives of Mohamed Muizzu’s presidency?

As President, Muizzu has focused on safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of the Maldives, overseeing housing and infrastructure development, removing foreign troops from the Maldives, and implementing government policy and legislative reforms.

Q5: What is Mohamed Muizzu’s family background?

Mohamed Muizzu is married to Sajidha Mohamed, and they have three children: two sons, Umair and Zaid, and a daughter, Yasmin. His father, Sheikh Hussain Abdul Rahman, was a judge and religious scholar who received the National Award of Honour in 2013.

Q6: What notable projects did Mohamed Muizzu oversee as Minister of Housing?

During his tenure as Minister of Housing, Mohamed Muizzu supervised significant infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Sinamalé Bridge, the first inter-island bridge in Maldivian history.

Q7: How did Mohamed Muizzu become the presidential candidate for the People’s National Congress?

Mohamed Muizzu was nominated as the presidential candidate for the People’s National Congress following the disqualification of former President Abdulla Yameen due to corruption charges.

Q8: What hobbies and interests does Mohamed Muizzu have?

In his personal life, Mohamed Muizzu enjoys reading and traveling.

Q9: What is the height of Mohamed Muizzu?

Mohamed Muizzu is approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm).

Q10: Where can I learn more about Mohamed Muizzu’s policies and initiatives?

More information about Mohamed Muizzu’s policies and initiatives can be found through official Maldivian government publications and news outlets that cover Maldivian politics.