President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has asserted that government projects implemented by previous governments faced delays due to government leaders' involvement in receiving undue benefits from the projects.
Speaking at a campaign event in HDh. Nolhivaranfaru, President Solih said the projects incurred significant cost increases because government officials took a share of the cost. However, President Solih highlighted that under the current administration, thousands of projects are being implemented simultaneously and are reaching timely completion due to their transparent execution.
In reference to a local newspaper report concerning large sums of money entering the personal account of the PPM-PNC presidential candidate, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President Solih addressed the issue in his speech, affirming that no suspicious funds have entered his personal account at any time.
President Solih urged the people to consider the dire consequences that could arise if power were to fall into the hands of others due to small mistakes. He said in such a situation, the country would have to once again endure the fear and injustice of the past. He recalled that in the past, anyone who was critical of the government was put in jail. However, there is no obstruction to freedom of expression during the current administration, he said.
Speaking on tourism in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, President Solih said that MDP coalition partner, Maldives Development Alliance (MDA)'s leader, Ahmed Siyam, was the only person to have opened a resort in the Haa Dhaalu Atoll area over the past fifty years. He said previous governments intentionally avoided expanding tourism to Haa Dhaalu Atoll as they wished to keep the people disempowered.
The president noted that previous governments carried out development projects ahead of elections. Highlighting the contrast between his government and past governments, President Solih said his government's development efforts were not tied to the election cycle and underlined the importance of political differences not impeding the Maldives' progress. President Solih cited efforts to provide essential services to all islands and the positive impact of the RTL Ferry System in connecting the Maldives. He also expressed confidence that the results of investments in education and skill development would become evident in the coming years.
Making specific pledges for Nolhivaranfaru, The President said a multi-purpose hall would be built at the island's school, and the major roads would be paved and modernized. He committed to expanding the health center's facilities, establishing a sports-focused youth center, and building a large football stadium. He also vowed to protect the island's eroded areas and reduce rent for houses occupied by individuals who have migrated from other islands to Nolhivaranfaru.
