Ahmed Haitham is a Maldivian politician and former Member of Parliament for Machangolhi South in the 19th People’s Majlis (2019–2024). Known for his unwavering commitment to justice and social welfare, Haitham’s political career was defined by his bold stance against corruption, advocacy for human rights, and tireless efforts to address key national issues. Prior to entering politics, he was a respected photojournalist for the Minivan Daily, capturing pivotal moments of political unrest and human rights violations through his widely followed photo stream, “Insaafuge Dhathuru” (Journey of Justice). His images brought global attention to the struggles faced by Maldivian citizens during a period of press brutality and political turmoil.
During his tenure as an MP, Haitham was instrumental in exposing corruption, including the ventilator scandal during the COVID-19 pandemic, and advocating for stronger cybersecurity measures. He championed the rights of migrant workers and called for the reinstatement of resort worker employment while pushing for a 65% Maldivian employment ratio in the tourism industry. Haitham was also a strong advocate for child welfare and social justice, introducing key amendments and petitions aimed at reforming the National Drug Agency (NDA) and improving child protection laws.
Haitham’s legacy includes his orchestration of the Ban Israeli Resolution, a landmark petition that garnered the most citizen signatures in parliamentary history, despite facing strong opposition from both government and political elites. His courage to stand by the will of the people was a testament to his integrity.
However, Haitham’s journey was fraught with personal challenges. His outspoken stance on corruption and his tireless work on social justice issues made him a target for multiple assassination attempts, including physical assaults and several threats to his life and the safety of his family. Despite facing countless harassment, intimidation, and security breaches, Haitham continued his advocacy, ensuring that his voice remained a beacon for justice in the Maldives. His legacy is one of resilience, courage, and an unyielding dedication to the Maldivian people.