In my role as a cartoonist, I often explore the intersection of art and politics, using satire as a tool to comment on the complexities of Maldivian political life. This month, I've chosen a particularly striking piece as the 'Cartoon of the Month' that vividly captures the turbulent and sometimes chaotic nature of our political arena. This cartoon is not just a simple sketch; it's a nuanced reflection of the fervent debates and the occasionally unruly atmosphere within our legislative processes. The scene is set in a single, powerful frame: one lawmaker is shown in a dominant, almost aggressive stance over another, a stark contrast to the expected decorum of legislative conduct. This striking imagery, accompanied by the puzzled observer from our series being met with the ironic reply of "making laws," sharply critiques the current state of political affairs. Selecting this particular cartoon was a deliberate choice. It aims to provoke introspection about the

Recent social media incidents have peeled back the curtain on the Maldives' idyllic facade, compelling the nation to embark on a transformative journey beyond traditional tourism. This exploration dives into the nation's commitment to sustainability, weaving recent social media incidents into its narrative. Amidst the serene turquoise waters of the Maldives, a visionary proposal emerges, aiming to shape the nation's future in response to the troubling surge in social media hate mongering. The "Knowledge Archipelago" stands as a bold and ambitious idea, inviting us to explore alternatives and redefine the very essence of the Maldivian identity. This visionary project envisions the islands as a global hub for intellect, innovation, and collaboration—a departure from the current discord perpetuated through social media. In the pages that follow, we delve into this proposed idea, examining how it could serve as a transformative catalyst, steering the Maldives towards

The Maldives, a picturesque island nation in the Indian Ocean, has long been known for its stunning natural beauty. However, in recent years, the country has been facing a growing environmental threat that is often overlooked - visual pollution. This form of pollution is the presence of man-made structures and objects that mar the natural beauty of the environment, and it poses a significant threat to the economy of the Maldives. Visual pollution can take many forms, from littered plastic waste on the beaches to the unregulated construction of buildings and structures that clash with the natural surroundings. Plastic waste is a major source of visual pollution in the Maldives, as tourists and locals alike often leave behind single-use items such as plastic bags and bottles. This waste not only ruins the aesthetic appeal of the environm ent but also poses a significant threat to the Maldives' marine life. Visual pollution not only harms the environment but also has economic conseque

As a strong advocate of social equality and rights, I am deeply troubled by the state of modern day democratic processes. It is disheartening to witness the system reduced to a mere transaction, where money talks louder than the voices of the people. The once revered notion of democracy has been tarnished by the rampant buying and influencing of voters, rendering it nothing more than a joke. My belief system, which always held a sliver of doubt about the effectiveness of democracy, has been shattered by the blatant disregard for fair and just elections. The concept of democracy, with its roots in ancient Greece, has evolved over centuries to become a cornerstone of modern society. It is a system of governance that ensures people have a say in how their country is run and their interests are represented in decision-making processes. However, despite the many positive aspects of democracy, it has become corrupted in many countries, including ours, due to the influence of money and vote-b

    Summary Lack of proper ferry terminal in Male impacting locals, especially those seeking medical attention during peak seasons and rough weather. Proposal for two terminals (north and south) to address challenges, including the conversion of former Hulhumale terminal and new facility. Additional services like tuck shops and comfortable waiting areas suggested. Urgent government action needed for significant improvement. It is unfortunate that the absence of a proper ferry terminal in Male has gone unnoticed by the government and politicians, despite posing significant challenges for locals and negatively impacting the tourism industry and local economy. The lack of a proper ferry terminal makes it difficult for local visitors, including sick individuals and those seeking medical attention, to access the city's hospitals and medical facilities. Moreover, visitors arriving by ferry are forced to harbor near the breakwater without proper facilities and shelter, making it challeng

illegal immigration has been a thorny issue for many nations around the world. In the Maldives, the influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh has become a cause for concern, given that the number of illegal immigrants is almost equivalent to the local population of the country. This poses a significant threat to national security, but the issue is further complicated by the need to protect human rights. On the one hand, illegal immigration threatens national security in several ways. Illegal immigrants often enter the country without proper documentation, making it difficult for authorities to monitor their movements and activities. This can create a situation where illegal immigrants engage in criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other forms of organized crime, which pose a direct threat to national security. Additionally, illegal immigration can put a strain on the country's resources. Illegal immigrants often take jobs that would otherwise go