The People’s Majlis has revealed that the inauguration ceremony of President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Vice President-elect Hussain Mohamed Latheef will cost MVR 22.9 million.

Citing the People’s Majlis, some media outlets earlier reported that more than MVR 200 million would be spent for the swearing-in ceremony.

However, the parliament has since revealed that the figure is incorrect and that MVR 22.9 million would be spent for the ceremony.

The swearing-in ceremony is to be held at the Republic Square in capital Malé City at 4:45pm on November 17, which falls on a Friday. Republic Square was chosen for the swearing-in ceremony in order to allow more people from the public to attend the important event.

Communications Director of the People’s Majlis, Hassan Ziyau revealed that the ceremony’s arrangements and preparations have been contracted by the tender board to Sifainge Welfare Company (SIWEC).

Although MVR 22.9 million has been anticipated to be spent for the ceremony, the parliament is yet to disclose a detailed account of expenditure.

According to the President-elect's Office, consultations have been held with the foreign dignitaries, heads of state and senior government officials who will be attending the ceremony. Foreign dignitaries and world leaders are expected to attend November’s ceremony.

Parliament earlier revealed that 3,500 invitations will be extended for the swearing-in ceremony.

Earlier, the parliament extended invitations to international media outlets that wish to cover the President-elect’s swearing-in ceremony as well. It has been assured that the parliament would assist in important administrative arrangements to obtain visas and other required permits for accommodation. The parliament has however noted that the attending media outlets must bear the expenses for travel, food, accommodation and other expenses. International media outlets that wish to cover the event will be required to notify the People’s Majlis before October 31.

However, current arrangements do not permit members of the general public to attend the ceremony, according to Ziyau.

Dr. Muizzu, who won the Presidential race 2023 against incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, will be the eighth president of the archipelago nation.

The president-elect will also be the first president to be sworn in after winning both rounds of an election.

In case of bad weather conditions and a situation where the ceremony cannot be held at the Republic Square arises, the function will be held at the People’s Majlis.