The PPM-PNC presidential candidate, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, has criticized incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih for his inability to establish fundamental services across all islands during his five-year tenure.
Speaking at a campaign event held at Sh. Fonadhoo on Wednesday, Dr. Muizzu said the current government lacks long-term vision in developing the country's islands, noting that actions are undertaken merely for the sake of doing so. Noting that the government has failed to find a permanent solution to waste management issues faced by the islands, he emphasized his commitment to rectify these matters if he assumes office and pledged to ensure basic services in all inhabited Maldivian islands.
Muizzu pointed out that the government has not done much for Fonadhoo's development since constructing an airport on the island. Many services necessary for the airport still remain unavailable, and some changes and developments need to be brought to the airport, he said.
Further noting that Shaviyani Atoll has the potential for significant economic progress, Dr. Muizzu said the government has been negligent in exploring these possibilities. The government's failure to bring about the desired development has left the people feeling hopeless, he said.
Sharing some of his pledges for Shaviyani Atoll and Funadhoo Island, Muizzu said he would pave the larger roads of the island and dredge a large area to extend the island's airport runway in addition to enabling nighttime flight operation at the island's airport. Furthermore, he pledged to establish an Islamic center, a youth center, and a nature park. Dr. Muizzu underscored his commitment to fostering employment opportunities through eco-tourism and youth-centric projects.
Reassuring the island's youth who feared job losses for supporting him, Muizzu said they need not be intimidated by the prospect and promised them better jobs during his term if they were terminated for supporting him. He pledged to construct special centers for senior citizens and a modern mental health hospital that adheres to international standards. A foster care program named “A Family for Every Child” was also proposed to enhance the government's care system for children. He also vowed to maintain ongoing projects.
Muizzu further said services should be available equally in all islands, and the people's desired development will be achieved only if an honest government and an honest leader take over the government. He said the problems in the society can only be solved if all the people of the Maldives come together.
